Lead, Upstream Processing COE – Biopharma Operations

jj; Leiden; On-site; EUR 83,000 - 144,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Vacation days

Parental leave

Well-being reimbursement

Career development programs

Job summary

Johnson & Johnson is seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Center of Expertise (COE) in Upstream Processing at our cutting-edge biopharmaceutical facility in Leiden, the Netherlands.

Reporting to the Director of Upstream Processing, you will guide a team of experts dedicated to driving strategic improvements, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field.
• 8–10 years of industrial experience in operations management, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Proven ability to lead change and solve complex problems.
• Positive, motivating leadership style that enhances team morale and productivity.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team of engineers and supervisors focused on upstream process, equipment, and quality initiatives.
• Set clear objectives aligned with business goals, and provide coaching and support to ensure team success.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Downstream Processing COE, Make Asset Management, Quality Assurance, MSAT, and R&D to deliver impactful projects on time and within budget.
• Monitor key performance indicators to ensure excellence in safety, quality, reliability, and financial performance.
• Drive operational efficiency in upstream processing through data-driven improvements in yield and performance.
• Lead the introduction of new biopharmaceutical products, ensuring upstream process and equipment readiness.
• Maintain validated states of processes and equipment in compliance with GMP.
• Champion a LEAN culture through Root Cause Problem Solving, Gemba walks, and process observation.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a team culture that reflects and respects the communities we serve.

Skills

Analytical skills

Safety & quality

Communication

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Problem solving

LEAN methodologies

GMP knowledge

Organizational knowledge

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Johnson & Johnson is seeking a Senior Manager to lead our Center of Expertise (COE) in Upstream Processing at our cutting-edge biopharmaceutical facility in Leiden, the Netherlands.

Reporting to the Director of Upstream Processing, you will guide a team of experts dedicated to driving strategic improvements, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance.