Introduction
Senior Director of Operational Technology (Operations) reports to the Manufacturing Digital Lead and provides technical leadership for OT across a global manufacturing network. The role drives execution, clarity, and measurable outcomes in OT lifecycle management, risk mitigation, and regulatory readiness, partnering with IT, Cybersecurity, site automation leads, and site-based OT teams.
Accountabilities
* Lead execution of the OT strategy across the manufacturing network, aligning with business priorities and improving reliability, safety, and compliance.
* Drive adoption of OT lifecycle management standards to plan, fund, and deliver upgrades on time, reducing obsolescence and vulnerability.
* Ensure effective use of OT risk tools and platforms (e.g., Claroty) to identify, mitigate, and remediate high‑priority risks in the OT environment.
* Engage and educate site teams on evolving OT requirements, building capability and consistency in day‑to‑day OT management.
* Act as the point of contact with site Joint Operations Teams, building collaboration, sharing best practices, and strengthening the OT network to accelerate problem‑solving and delivery.
* Support sites with medium‑term planning and funding submissions related to OT upgrades, aligned to lifecycle strategy.
* Lead cross‑functional governance for OT improvement projects, reporting costs, tracking benefits, and ensuring transparency on outcomes.
* Engage with internal audit bodies and support the manufacturing network in preparation for and engagement with external regulators, ensuring OT meets all standards and regulations.
* Ensure all OT changes and improvements adhere to AstraZeneca standards and external regulatory requirements.
* Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of emerging trends, scanning external developments and internal performance to inform strategy and action.
Essential Skills & Experience
* A degree or equivalent experience in an appropriate subject area.
* Extensive experience in Operational Technology within a pharmaceutical or manufacturing environment.
* Detailed knowledge of OT processes and local regulations.
* Strong influencer with the ability to communicate across matrix organisations and inspire and drive change.
* Agile learner capable of working across technical domains.
* Extensive knowledge of the latest technical and regulatory expectations surrounding Operational Technology.
Desirable Skills & Experience
* Proven leadership of OT strategy across multiple sites and complex, regulated environments.
* Proven success implementing OT lifecycle management and funding models that reduce risk and obsolescence.
* Hands‑on familiarity with OT security platforms and tooling (e.g., Claroty) and their integration into site processes.
* Experience leading OT governance frameworks, benefits tracking, and investment cases.
* Track record collaborating with senior collaborators across IT, Cybersecurity, and site automation, including matrix leadership of dotted‑line teams.
* Strong regulatory engagement experience, supporting audits and inspections in highly regulated settings.
* Background in pharmaceutical manufacturing standards and data integrity, with practical change management and capability‑building skills.
* Experience in industrial or automation focused work environment.
EEO Statement
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates perform at their best.
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