Associate Director, Operational Excellence

OverviewAssociate Director, Operational Excellence role at BioSpace. The position leads a culture of continuous improvement and deploys Operational Excellence (OE) tools across the site, aligning OE initiatives with OpU objectives and global standards. The role contributes to the site master plan, embeds continuous improvement principles to optimize product flow and value-added activities, and leads the OE program at the Covington facility with cross-workstream coordination.ResponsibilitiesLead the Operational Excellence team, driving strategic initiatives across multiple workstreams including Operational Excellence, Lab Excellence, Digital, End-to-End Supply Chain, Site/Network Development, and People, Culture, and Change.Own and manage the OE program for the Covington facility, ensuring alignment with site strategy and business objectives.Champion a culture of continuous improvement by leading site-wide problem-solving efforts and developing lean capabilities at the operating team level.Facilitate and execute lean waste reduction initiatives through hands-on engagement with frontline teams.Oversee the nomination, training, mentoring, and certification of Lean and Six Sigma Green Belts and Black Belts, ensuring project alignment with key site priorities.Foster a data-driven culture by leveraging digital platforms to enhance predictability and performance in business processes.Ensure disciplined project execution by applying the DMAIC methodology with rigor and effectiveness, including phase gate reviews and milestone tracking.Set departmental goals and manage performance objectives for the OE team.Deliver DMAIC training and facilitate cross-functional improvement teams.Represent the site by presenting project outcomes at company-wide forums, while effectively managing multiple priorities and initiatives.QualificationsBachelor’s degree required, preferably in science, engineering, or a related technical field.Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years in a management or leadership role.At least 3 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry is preferred.Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.Strong negotiation, influencing, consulting, and facilitation capabilities.Proven interpersonal and coaching skills; self-motivated with a track record of delivering results.Proficiency in Microsoft Office and process mapping tools; experience with Minitab, cGMP, ISO 9001:2000, and FDA regulations is a plus.Demonstrated leadership and mentoring abilities with a focus on driving change and aligning teams to a shared vision.Excellent communication, presentation, and facilitation skills, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.Strong organizational, project management, and interpersonal skills; knowledge of manufacturing processes, re-engineering strategies, and continuous improvement methodologies.Ability to train and collaborate with employees at all levels; flexibility to work extended hours and various shifts as required.Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 25 lbs as needed.What Takeda Can Offer YouComprehensive Healthcare: Medical, Dental, and VisionFinancial Planning & Stability: 401(k) with company match and Annual Retirement Contribution PlanHealth & Wellness programs including onsite flu shots and health screeningsGenerous time off for vacation and the option to purchase additional vacation daysCommunity Outreach Programs and company match of charitable contributionsFamily Planning SupportFlexible Work PathsTuition reimbursementImportant ConsiderationsRole involves working in controlled manufacturing environments with gowning and protective gear; may require protective equipment and special conditions.Potential to work in cold or wet environments and across multiple shifts, including weekends.Exposure to chemicals requiring respiratory protection in some areas.About UsTakeda is a patient-focused company transforming patient care through novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best-in-class patient support programs. We are a Global Top Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and excellence. This posting excludes Colorado applicants.EEO StatementTakeda is committed to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-08