Manager Operational Excellence (m|f|d)

About the company

For over 35 years, the organization has been advancing scientific and technological solutions that support biomedical research and personalized medicine. Its work brings together expertise from more than 60 disciplines across natural sciences, engineering, and informatics, with the aim of making a meaningful impact on biomedical science. The company promotes an inventive, forward-looking workplace and is backed by more than 4,900 professionals from over 70 countries.

Role overview

As the business approaches the expected approval of an advanced CAR-T cell therapy, the site is expanding its Operational Excellence capabilities to support a smooth move into commercial manufacturing.

What you will do

• Design and roll out site-level Lean, Six Sigma, and Operational Excellence initiatives that improve manufacturing performance, cut waste, and raise output.
• Build a lasting continuous-improvement mindset by guiding interdisciplinary teams, helping develop their capabilities, and certifying them in CI methods while staying aligned with global business priorities.
• Partner with production, quality assurance, and engineering teams to investigate root causes, lower variation in processes, and execute optimization actions in line with cGMP and regulatory expectations.
• Own the site’s OpEx portfolio, define relevant KPIs, and create dashboard-based reporting that makes efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and capacity use visible.
• Act as a strategic advisor to leadership by presenting progress and results, and by contributing directly to long-term competitiveness in a tightly regulated biotech setting.

What we are looking for

You should have a university degree in biotechnology, engineering, pharmacy, or a closely related discipline, along with several years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sector, preferably in production or operational excellence roles. Strong practical knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methods, including Green Belt or Black Belt level or equivalent, is expected, together with a solid record of applying continuous-improvement tools in real projects. A strong understanding of cGMP as well as FDA and EMA requirements is important for working effectively in regulated environments. The role also calls for strong analytical ability, experience using KPIs, data analysis, and dashboard tools, plus a resilient, positive leadership style. You should be able to coach cross-functional teams, communicate confidently in English at all organizational levels, and combine strategic thinking with a hands-on, solution-focused approach.

Additional information

The company emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration as core parts of its culture. Its mission is to develop treatments and technologies that address major global health challenges by bringing together different disciplines, perspectives, skills, and abilities. Applicants are welcome regardless of gender, sexual identity, age, ethnicity, religion, or disability.

Application notes

Interested candidates are asked to submit their CV and certificates. The application should also include the earliest possible start date and salary expectations.