SummarynnThe Director, Site Operational Excellence u0026 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.nnThis 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.nnAbout The RolennKey AccountabilitiesnnOperational Excellence u0026 Site PerformancennDefine and execute site OpEx strategy aligned with ARD/TRD global objectivesDrive continuous improvement (Lean, data analytics, digital enablement) to enhance productivity and reduce cycle timesEstablish performance management systems (KPIs, dashboards, governance reviews)nnTechnical Operations LeadershipnnProvide strategic oversight of technical operations, analytical infrastructure, and service delivery (including instruments, samples, engineering, procurement, shipment)Ensure lifecycle management, reliability, and scalability of analytical capabilitiesBuild sustainable technical capabilities and future-ready operationsnnExternal Partner Management (EPM) u0026 Network StrategynnLead ARD externalization strategy, including partner selection, onboarding, and governanceDrive performance management of external partners through structured reviews and KPIsEnsure seamless integration of external partners into project delivery frameworksOptimize global partner network for cost, quality, and speednnQuality, Compliance u0026 Risk ManagementnnEnsure compliance with GMP, CFR 21,



and Novartis quality standards across internal and external operationsAccountable for QMS, audits, deviations, and inspection readinessLead risk management for external partners and operational processesnnFinancial Stewardship u0026 Value DeliverynnAccountable for site Capex/Opex and external spend optimizationDrive value creation through strategic sourcing and makevsbuy decisionsEnable cost competitiveness while maintaining quality and timelinesnn Leadership u0026 Organizational ImpactnnLead and develop high-performing teams across operations and EPMFoster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvementAct as a key member of Global ARD LTInfluence global stakeholders and drive enterprise-wide alignmentnnMinimum RequirementnnAdvanced degree (PhD / MSc) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or related field18 - 20 years of extensive experience in Ru0026D / Technical Operations with strategic mindsetProven leadership in Operational Excellence and continuous improvementSignificant experience managing external partners (CMOs/CROs)Strong understanding of GMP/QMS and regulatory frameworksDemonstrated success in leading global, cross-functional teamsExperience in managing lab operations setup.nnWhy Novartis: Helping people with disease and their families takes more than creative science. It takes a community of smart, passionate people like you. Collaborating, supporting and inspiring each other. Combining to achieve breakthroughs that change patients lives. Ready to create a brighter future together https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culturennBenefits and Rewards: Learn about all the ways well help you thrive personally and professionally.nnRead our handbook (PDF 30 MB) .

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