Associate Director, Operational Excellence

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Associate Director of Operational Excellence to lead the development and execution of the Operational Excellence strategy at a well-established pharmaceutical organization based in Ireland Midlands. This role is highly visible and cross-functional, focusing on enhancing efficiency, quality, productivity, and overall business performance by implementing Lean Six Sigma principles and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate the creation, deployment, and ongoing advancement of the Operational Excellence roadmap.
• Lead cross-functional continuous improvement projects across the company.
• Utilize Lean Six Sigma techniques such as Value Stream Mapping, process mapping, statistical analysis, root cause analysis, A3 problem solving, and Kaizen events.
• Establish and integrate Operational Excellence programs including Visual Management, Continuous Improvement, structured Problem Solving, Gemba walks, and Standard Work practices.
• Collaborate closely with leadership and diverse teams to uncover areas for efficiency enhancement, cost reduction, and quality improvement.
• Identify and implement value generation opportunities through process and resource optimization.
• Examine performance data and metrics to pinpoint improvement potentials, supporting data-driven decisions.
• Drive change management efforts to foster adoption and sustainable use of new processes and methodologies.
• Coach, guide, and educate team members and colleagues on Operational Excellence and continuous improvement approaches.
• Promote an organizational culture centered around continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Ensure all improvement initiatives comply with GMP and relevant regulatory standards.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, manufacturing, or supply chain roles within the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical sectors.
• Proven track record of leading comprehensive process improvements and cross-functional transformation projects.
• Advanced practical expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and tools.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
• Demonstrated success in achieving quantifiable enhancements in efficiency, quality, productivity, or cost management.
• Strong ability to manage stakeholders and influence across varied organizational levels.
• Experience in supporting organizational change initiatives and ensuring long-term improvement sustainability.
• Working knowledge of environments regulated by GMP standards.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in Project Management.
• Certification in Change Management.

Additional Information

This position offers a hybrid working model requiring presence on-site three days per week with travel commitments around 5–10%. The role provides a significant opportunity to influence and embed operational excellence in a pharmaceutical context.