Director, Business Excellence

Job Summary

The Director, Business Excellence will lead the strategic business excellence agenda across the portfolio execution landscape, spanning from business case approval to commercial launch. Reporting to the VP, Portfolio Execution & Business Excellence, this individual will drive enterprise-wide process optimization, operational analytics, and performance transformation within the R&D function.

This leader will oversee the development of advanced reporting and analytics frameworks, leverage tools such as Power BI, and implement process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Six Sigma) to enhance executional efficiency, visibility, and cross-functional alignment.

The ideal candidate will bring a strategic mindset, deep operational and analytical acumens experience leading change in a complex, matrixed pharmaceutical environment.

Job Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Executional Performance
  • Define and drive the business excellence vision, priorities, and execution roadmap.
  • Lead cross-functional initiatives to standardize and optimize processes across the R&D execution lifecycle.
  • Act as a thought partner to R&D leadership, bringing strategic insight and operational discipline.
  • Translate strategic goals into actionable metrics and drive accountability through transparent reporting.
• Data-Driven Decision Making & Performance Reporting
  • Design, develop, and govern Power BI dashboards, operational scorecards, and analytics models.
  • Provide actionable insights through robust analysis, empowering executive-level decision-making.
  • Institutionalize best practices for reporting cadence, metric definitions, and stakeholder alignment.
• Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement
  • Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma and other methodologies.
  • Establish and manage an R&D Business Excellence framework, including process mapping and governance standards.
  • Ensure initiatives are linked to measurable value outcomes (e.g., reduced development cycle times, increased launch success rate).
  • Build a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Change Management
  • Partner with various departments to ensure seamless execution of process and data strategies.
  • Drive change management and adoption strategies for new tools, processes, and reporting standards.
  • Facilitate strategic working groups and business forums to align on execution priorities.
• Team Leadership
  • Build and lead a high-performing Business Excellence & Reporting team.
  • Foster an environment of collaboration, innovation, and professional development.
  • Participate in performance conversations with employees, offering support and removing barriers.
  • Utilize open, honest communication to build trust-based relationships.
  • Create a culture valuing trust and providing opportunities for employee development.
  • Attract and hire talent, then onboard new employees consistently.
  • Ensure adherence to compliance programs and company policies.

Job Requirements

• Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, business, or related field required; MBA or advanced degree is a strong asset.

• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Expert-level proficiency with Power BI, data visualization, and analytics frameworks; experience with enterprise systems (e.g., EPM, ERP) is a strong asset.
  • Deep knowledge of project management and R&D execution methodologies (e.g., stage-gate, critical path, resource planning).
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification or equivalent experience with formal process improvement methodologies.
  • Strong executive presence and ability to influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, business-relevant insights.

• Experience
  • 10+ years of experience in business excellence, operational strategy, or R&D project execution, preferably in pharmaceuticals, life sciences, or a similarly regulated industry.
  • Proven track record leading business transformation initiatives or Centers of Excellence at a global or enterprise level.