Program Manager

Job Summary

Leads high-visibility Global External Operations (GEO) programs, including Contract Manufacturing Organisation (CMO) / Contract Packaging Organisation (CPO) site Technology Transfers, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLCM) projects. Develop, manage, and execute detailed project plans and service budgets.

Serves as an expert in CMO Site Technology Transfers programs and PLCM activities, coaches Project Managers/ Leaders on industry’s best practices. Engages stakeholders at all levels, effectively influences strategy and proactively manages risks to ensure timely and successful projects completion.

Job Responsibilities

Project Planning and Execution

• Leads high-visibility, cross-functional initiatives across the Global External Operations (GEO) portfolio, including CMO/CPO Technology Transfers, and Product Lifecycle Management (PLCM) projects.
• Develops, executes, and monitors detailed project plans and service budgets, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and continuity of global product supply.
• Ensures timely achievement of project milestones, effective risk management, and compliance with corporate and regulatory standards.
• Leads PLCM initiatives, including process optimizations and packaging/artwork updates, ensuring regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and market readiness.
• Provides senior-level leadership and subject matter expertise in managing end-to-end third-party Technology Transfers, ensuring seamless execution across global manufacturing sites.

Project Budget and Resources Management

• Reviews technical and commercial implications of Technology Transfers and PLCM projects, develops detailed budgets, internal and external resource requirements and implementation strategies.
• Manages project budget and monitors costs to ensure efficient use of resources, accurate cost forecasting, and on-budget project delivery

Program Leadership and Risk Management

• Independently drives program/project outcomes while providing strategic updates and insights to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.
• Proactively identifies and mitigates risks, develops contingency plans, and drives resolution of complex issues to maintain uninterrupted supply.
• Ensures all transfers and lifecycle initiatives are governed with clear scope, risk controls, KPIs, budgets and stakeholder alignment to maintain supply continuity.
• Builds and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with key stakeholders across Regulatory Affairs, R&D, MS&T, Supply Chain, Quality, and Finance to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Acts as a key liaison between internal teams and external manufacturing partners, resolving escalations and aligning goals across global functions.
• Supports Team KPIs and programs performance analysis. Recommends Dashboards and communication tools for reporting metrics to GEO and Apotex Leadership.
• Engages stakeholders at all levels—including executive leadership—to manage expectations, influence strategy, communicate risks, and provide visibility into program status and performance.

Process Improvement

• Continuously assesses GEO project management processes to identify gaps and inefficiencies. Recommends and implements process improvements, best practices and standardized methodologies.
• Champions cross-functional alignment and drives continuous improvement across third-party operations and project delivery frameworks.
• Mentors and coaches Project Managers/ Leaders on global best practices for project execution, governance, and stakeholder engagement.

Other

• Works in a safe manner collaborating as a team member to achieve all outcomes
• Demonstrate Behaviours that exhibit our organizational Values: Collaboration, Courage, Perseverance, and Passion.
• Ensure personal adherence with all compliance programs including the Global Business Ethics and Compliance Program, Global Quality policies and procedures, Safety and Environment policies, and HR policies.
• All other relevant duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Engineering, or a related field.
• Advanced degree (MBA, MSc) or Project Management certification (PMP, PRINCE2) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing technologies, analytical and supply chain operations, product lifecycle management, regulatory and commercial considerations - preferably in generic markets.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects in complex, fast-paced environments with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational, project management, and time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective communicator with strong interpersonal and presentation skills; comfortable engaging senior leadership and large cross-functional teams.
• Skilled in stakeholder influence, negotiation, and conflict resolution across all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated ability to drive accountability, facilitate decision-making, and lead in a matrix environment.
• Proficient in enterprise systems and project management tools (e.g., SAP, MS Project, EPM), with strong MS Office skills.

Experience

• 8+ years of progressive, cross-functional experience preferably within the pharmaceutical, life sciences, or biotechnology industries, including leadership roles.
• 5–10 years of experience managing complex, concurrent projects involving third-party operations, technology transfers, and/or PLCM.
• Proven track record in project or product management, with demonstrated impact on operational efficiency and business outcomes.