Senior Manager Operations COE USP

Senior Manager, Center of Expertise – Upstream Processing

Are you a transformational 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 groundbreaking 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 encouraging a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team of engineers and supervisors passionate about 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, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Science & Technology, and R&D to deliver impactful projects on time and within budget.
• Supervise key performance indicators to ensure excellence in safety, quality, reliability, and financial performance.
• Drive operational efficiency in Upstream through data-driven improvements in yield and performance, demonstrating deep process and technical expertise.
• Own 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.
• 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 track record 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 standard processes and industry trends.
• Proven 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.

Additional Information

This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact at our Leiden site, while enjoying a collaborative and innovative work culture. Preferred certifications such as Six Sigma Green Belt will further enhance your ability to lead projects and implement process improvements. Are you ready to take the next step in your career and make a difference at Johnson & Johnson? If you share our values and are excited about this leadership opportunity, we encourage you to apply today! Join us in our mission to improve health and well-being for all.

Johnson & Johnson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

The anticipated base pay range for this position is 80,800.00 to 140,530.00 EUR on an annual basis and includes 8% holiday allowance.