Director Operational Excellence & PMO Microbial Operations

Lonza seeks a Director of Operational Excellence & PMO for its Microbial Operations network in Visp, Switzerland. The role focuses on driving performance, leading strategic projects, and embedding continuous improvement across manufacturing sites.

Based at the Visp manufacturing facility, this position leads operational excellence and strategic project delivery throughout the Microbial Operations network. The role requires on-site presence to ensure close collaboration and technical precision in medicine manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an operational excellence strategy to enhance performance and competitiveness across Microbial Operations.
• Spearhead continuous improvement efforts using Lean Six Sigma to achieve tangible business results.
• Create and manage a project management office framework to ensure effective governance, prioritization, and execution of strategic initiatives.
• Manage the entire project portfolio, maintaining clear scope, milestones, risk management, resource allocation, and benefit realization.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align cross-functional priorities and facilitate decision-making.
• Oversee governance and planning processes, including operational excellence roadmaps, business reviews, and business continuity planning.
• Develop organizational capability by coaching leaders and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in manufacturing operations, operational excellence, or project/program management within complex environments.
• Deep expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence stakeholders without formal authority.
• Strong capabilities in project portfolio management and governance.
• Strategic thinking paired with a hands-on execution mindset.
• Advanced communication and stakeholder management skills, particularly with senior leadership.
• A degree in a relevant field such as engineering or life sciences.

Nice to have

• Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma.
• Postgraduate qualification.

What the company offers

• Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families.
• An agile career and dynamic working culture.
• An inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Compensation programs that recognize high performance.
• A variety of benefits dependent on role and location.

About the company

Lonza fosters a collaborative, accountable, and excellent work environment driven by passion and integrity. The company values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where innovation thrives.

• Core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion, and Integrity guide how employees work together.
• Innovation is encouraged when people from all backgrounds contribute their unique perspectives.
• The company is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive environment for all employees.