Summary The Director, Site Operational Excellence & External Partner Management leads the integration of Operational Excellence, Site and Global Operations, and global External Partner Management (EPM) to deliver high-quality, compliant, and cost-effective solutions across internal and external networks. This role drives site productivity and site and global operations, externalization strategy, and partnership governance, ensuring alignment with ARD/TRD global priorities, regulatory standards, and portfolio delivery objectives.

About The Role Key Accountabilities Operational Excellence & Site Performance Define and execute site OpEx strategy aligned with ARD/TRD global objectives

Drive continuous improvement (Lean, data analytics, digital enablement) to enhance productivity and reduce cycle times

Establish performance management systems (KPIs, dashboards, governance reviews) Technical Operations Leadership Provide strategic oversight of technical operations, analytical infrastructure, and service delivery (including instruments, samples, engineering, procurement, shipment)

Ensure lifecycle management, reliability, and scalability of analytical capabilities

Build sustainable technical capabilities and future-ready operations External Partner Management (EPM) & Network Strategy Lead ARD externalization strategy, including partner selection, onboarding, and governance

Drive performance management of external partners through structured reviews and KPIs

Ensure seamless integration of external partners into project delivery frameworks

Optimize global partner network for cost, quality, and speed Quality, Compliance & Risk Management Ensure compliance with GMP, CFR 21,



and Novartis quality standards across internal and external operations

Accountable for QMS, audits, deviations, and inspection readiness

Lead risk management for external partners and operational processes Financial Stewardship & Value Delivery Accountable for site Capex/Opex and external spend optimization

Drive value creation through strategic sourcing and make‑vs‑buy decisions

Enable cost competitiveness while maintaining quality and timelines Leadership & Organizational Impact Lead and develop high-performing teams across operations and EPM

Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Act as a key member of Global ARD LT

Influence global stakeholders and drive enterprise-wide alignment Minimum Requirement Advanced degree (PhD / MSc) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related field

18 - 20 years of extensive experience in R&D; / Technical Operations with strategic mindset

Proven leadership in Operational Excellence and continuous improvement

Significant experience managing external partners (CMOs/CROs)

Strong understanding of GMP/QMS and regulatory frameworks

Demonstrated success in leading global, cross-functional teams

Experience in managing lab operations setup.

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📌 Director, Site Operations and External Partner Management (Hyderabad)
🏢 Novartis India
📍 Hyderabad