Global Deployment Program Lead

Job Summary:

Our client, a leading global pharmaceutical organization, is seeking an experienced Global Deployment Program Lead to lead the delivery of a large-scale deployment programme across its international manufacturing network.

This is a strategic programme leadership role responsible for coordinating multiple site deployments, driving governance and execution across deployment waves, and ensuring successful adoption of digital, technology and operational initiatives. You'll work closely with global stakeholders across Manufacturing, Operations, IT, Quality and Validation, playing a key role in a high-profile transformation programme.

This is an initial 12-month contract with a strong likelihood of extension and offers the opportunity to work remotely while supporting global manufacturing sites through occasional international travel.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the delivery of a global multi-site deployment programme across a pharmaceutical manufacturing network.
• Manage the integrated deployment roadmap and deployment wave strategy.
• Provide leadership, governance and direction to Site Deployment Leads and project teams.
• Drive programme planning, scheduling, resource management and reporting activities.
• Coordinate site readiness reviews and ensure deployment plans cover testing, validation, training, cutover, go-live and hypercare activities.
• Manage programme-level risks, issues, dependencies and change control processes.
• Prepare and present executive-level updates on progress, milestones and deployment readiness.
• Work closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Validation, IT and Operations stakeholders to support successful delivery.
• Oversee go-live activities and provide programme-level support throughout deployment and stabilization phases.
• Drive continuous improvement and promote standardisation across sites and deployment activities.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, Information Systems, Project Management or a related discipline.
• 10+ years' experience in project or programme management.
• Proven track record leading complex global programmes across multiple sites or business functions.
• Strong experience in PMO governance, integrated planning, executive reporting and stakeholder management.
• Extensive experience managing risks, issues, dependencies and resource requirements within large-scale programmes.
• Experience working within matrix organisations and leading geographically dispersed teams.
• Strong understanding of deployment and implementation lifecycles, including validation, testing, training, cutover, go-live and hypercare.
• Excellent communication, leadership and influencing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while driving delivery across cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to travel internationally as required.

Desirable Experience

• Pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• PMP, PRINCE2, MSP or equivalent programme management certification.
• Experience deploying MES, SAP/ERP, LIMS or other manufacturing technology platforms.
• Experience supporting global digital transformation, Industry 4.0 or manufacturing excellence initiatives.