Director Operational Excellence & PMO Microbial Operations

Director Operational Excellence & PMO – Microbial Operations The actual location of this job is in Visp, Switzerland. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families, if needed. This role is based at our Visp manufacturing site and plays a critical role in driving operational excellence and strategic project delivery across the Microbial Operations network, directly impacting performance, innovation, and scalability. This role is primarily based on site. Working together in person supports close, real-time collaboration and the technical precision needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards. What you will get An agile career and dynamic working cultureAn inclusive and ethical workplaceCompensation programs that recognize high performanceA variety of benefits dependent on role and locationThe full list of our global benefits can be found here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits What you will do Define and execute the Operational Excellence strategy across Microbial Operations to drive performance and competitivenessLead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma, delivering measurable business impact across assetsEstablish and run a robust PMO framework, ensuring strong governance, prioritization, and execution of strategic initiativesOversee the full project portfolio, ensuring clarity of scope, milestones, risks, resources, and benefits realizationPartner with senior leadership to enable alignment, decision-making, and execution of cross-functional prioritiesDrive governance and planning processes including OE roadmaps, business reviews, and business continuity planningBuild organizational capability by coaching leaders and embedding a culture of continuous improvement and accountability What we are looking for Significant experience in manufacturing operations, operational excellence, or project/program management in a complex environmentStrong expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies (Black Belt certification preferred)Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence without formal authorityExcellent project portfolio management and governance capabilitiesStrong strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution mindsetAdvanced communication and stakeholder management skills across senior leadership levelsDegree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, life sciences); postgraduate qualification preferred About Lonza At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone’s ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that’s the kind of work we want you to be part of. Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re ready to help turn our customers’ breakthrough ideas into viable therapies, we look forward to welcoming you on board. Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.