Director, Operational Excellence, EU & NA
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for operational excellence specialists grew 25% in the last year, driven by the need for streamlined processes in the pharmaceutical industry, Viatris stands out with its commitment to bridging the gap between generics and brands. With a strong focus on Lean 4.0 and digital transformation, this role is pivotal in driving the company's mission to empower people worldwide to live healthier. Candidates should be well-versed in Lean methodologies, digital technologies, and have a proven track record in deploying large-scale transformation programs. Before applying, it's essential to understand the current market context, where companies like Viatris are looking for leaders who can drive real change and make a significant impact.
Job Description
About the Role
The Director, Operational Excellence, EU & NA, plays a crucial role in Viatris's mission to empower people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life. This position is responsible for leading the end-to-end deployment and sustainment of the Lean 4.0 program across EU & NA sites, driving integration of Lean methodologies with digital technologies to create a modern, data-driven operating model. The role entails working closely with site leadership and teams to embed a culture of continuous improvement and digital adoption.As a key member of the Operational Excellence team, the Director will be responsible for driving the regional execution of Lean 4.0 governance, roadmap delivery, and wave-based deployment. This involves ensuring consistent adoption of Lean 4.0 standards, frameworks, and maturity models across sites, as well as delivering site diagnostics, baselining, and 3-year transformation roadmaps.
The role reports to the senior leadership team and is part of a global network of Operational Excellence professionals. The Director will be expected to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including digital transformation, manufacturing, and quality, to drive business outcomes.
What You Will Do
- Lead the end-to-end deployment and sustainment of the Lean 4.0 program across EU & NA sites
- Drive integration of Lean methodologies with digital technologies to create a modern, data-driven operating model
- Own regional execution of Lean 4.0 governance, roadmap delivery, and wave-based deployment
- Ensure consistent adoption of Lean 4.0 standards, frameworks, and maturity models across sites
- Deliver site diagnostics, baselining, and 3-year transformation roadmaps
- Translate global OE and Lean 4.0 strategy into site-level transformation roadmaps
- Lead deployment of standard work, lean systems, and performance management frameworks
- Institutionalize tier management, KPI systems, and structured problem-solving methodologies
- Ensure integration of OE practices into daily management systems and decision-making
- Scale and replicate best practices and successful transformation use cases
- Drive cost reduction framework and identify savings opportunities at site against targets
- Track and report value delivery against site targets
- Drive harmonization across sites and adopt best practices to deliver cost
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, or business; MBA preferred
- 12–18 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, operational excellence, or transformation roles
- Strong experience in Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt minimum; Black Belt preferred)
- Proven track record in deploying large-scale transformation programs across multiple sites/regions
- Experience in digital transformation / Industry 4.0 initiatives in manufacturing environments
- Strong understanding of cGMP and regulatory requirements
- Proficiency in speaking, comprehending, reading, and writing English
- Proficient in Excel and other digital tools
Nice to Have
- Experience with data analytics and AI-enabled insights
- Knowledge of digital labs and performance management
- Familiarity with predictive maintenance and energy optimization
- Certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or other relevant methodologies
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary
- Benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plan
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- Remote work arrangements
- Access to cutting-edge digital technologies and tools
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Employee assistance programs
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of Lean methodologies and digital technologies to stand out in the application process.
- Showcase your experience in deploying large-scale transformation programs and driving business outcomes.
- Be prepared to provide specific examples of your accomplishments in cost reduction, process improvement, and team leadership.
- Highlight your proficiency in Excel and other digital tools, as well as your ability to learn new technologies quickly.
- Research Viatris's mission and values to demonstrate your alignment with the company's goals and culture.
- Prepare to discuss your approach to change management, stakeholder engagement, and communication strategies.
- Be ready to negotiate your salary based on your experience and qualifications, and don't be afraid to ask about benefits and perks.
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