Senior Manager Operations COE

Job Description:

Senior Manager, Center of Expertise – Upstream Processing

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for innovation and operational excellence?
Do you thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy empowering teams to deliver impactful results?
If so, we invite you to explore an exciting opportunity to shape the future of biopharmaceutical manufacturing!

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Center of Expertise (COE) in Upstream Processing at our cutting-edge biopharmaceutical facility in Leiden, the Netherlands. Reporting to the Director of Upstream Processing, you will guide a team of experts dedicated to driving strategic improvements, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

Your leadership will be instrumental in advancing our manufacturing capabilities, introducing new products, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team of engineers and supervisors focused on upstream process, equipment, and quality initiatives.
• Set clear objectives aligned with business goals, and provide coaching and support to ensure team success.
• ·Collaborate cross-functionally with departments such as Downstream Processing COE, Make Asset Management (MAM), Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Science & Technology (MSAT), and R&D to deliver impactful projects on time and within budget.
• Monitor key performance indicators to ensure excellence in safety, quality, reliability, and financial performance.
• Drive operational efficiency in upstream processing through data-driven improvements in yield and performance, leveraging deep process and technical expertise.
• Lead the introduction of new biopharmaceutical products, ensuring upstream process and equipment readiness.
• Maintain validated states of processes and equipment in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Champion a LEAN culture through Root Cause Problem Solving, Gemba walks, and process observation.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a team culture that reflects and respects the communities we serve.

Qualifications

Must-Have

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• 8–10 years of industrial experience in operations management, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Proven ability to lead change and solve complex problems.
• Positive, motivating leadership style that enhances team morale and productivity.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• High safety and quality awareness, with experience in EHS and cGMP standards.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Deep understanding of operational best practices and industry trends.
• Demonstrated success in leading change within complex operational environments.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in pharmaceutical or upstream processing environments.
• Project management expertise.
• Familiarity with LEAN methodologies.
• Established relationships with external stakeholders.·