Senior Specialist Operational Excellence & Strategy

Prestigious pharmaceutical company Temporary 12 month contract // Start 1.October // Onsite role About Our Client:

Prestigious pharmaceutical company Job Description:

Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement

• Lead and drive Operational Excellence initiatives across the site to improve efficiency, reduce complexity, and enhance overall business performance.
• Identify, prioritize, and execute Lean Six Sigma projects focused on process simplification, standardization, waste reduction, and right-first-time execution.
• Establish and sustain standard work practices, visual management tools, and 5S methodologies across operations.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving activities and support a culture of continuous improvement.

Strategy & Business Performance

• Support the development and execution of site strategic initiatives and ensure alignment between operational activities and business objectives.
• Drive integrated site planning processes and contribute to long-term capacity, workforce, and facility planning.
• Monitor, analyze, and communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) to support effective decision-making and performance management.
• Prepare business analyses, performance reviews, and improvement recommendations for senior stakeholders.

Digital Transformation & Data Analytics

• Develop and maintain dashboards, automated reports, and business intelligence solutions to improve operational transparency.
• Identify opportunities for digitalization, automation, and process optimization across manufacturing and support functions.
• Utilize data analytics and performance insights to drive operational improvements and support strategic decision-making.
• Support the implementation of digital tools and innovative technologies that enhance productivity and efficiency.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Project Leadership

• Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, EHS, and other functions to deliver improvement projects and strategic initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional project teams and ensure sustainable implementation of process improvements.
• Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and stakeholder alignment activities to support change management efforts.
• Promote knowledge sharing and best practice implementation across the organization.

Compliance, Quality & Safety

• Ensure all activities comply with cGMP requirements, quality standards, site procedures, and EHS regulations.
• Support the review and approval of GMP-related documentation and operational processes.
• Actively contribute to a strong safety culture and support site-wide EHS initiatives.
• Serve as Site Area Training Coordinator when required and ensure training compliance within assigned areas.

The Successful Applicant:

• Bachelor's degree or higher (Master preferred) in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Data Analytics, Business Operations, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Several years of experience in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, Process Improvement, Digital Transformation, Data Analytics, or a comparable role within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, or similar continuous improvement methodologies.
• Fluent English is required; German is considered a strong asset.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience defining and managing KPIs and performance metrics.
• Experience working with business intelligence and reporting tools such as Power BI, Spotfire, or similar platforms.
• Solid understanding of GMP regulations, quality systems, SOPs, and compliance requirements.
• Strong project management and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to lead change initiatives and drive sustainable business improvements.
• Experience within biotechnology, pharmaceutical, biologics manufacturing, or other highly regulated industries is preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma certification and/or additional qualifications in Project Management, Change Management, Digital Transformation, or Operational Excellence are an advantage.
• Safety certification such as NEBOSH, IOSH, Swiss Safety Officer, or equivalent is highly desirable.
What's on Offer:

Interested in this opportunity as your next career step?
If so, I look forward to receiving your application.