Senior Manager Customer Projects (f / m / x)

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Manager Customer Projects to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for initiating, leading & executing strategic and large-scale operational initiatives within the ZEISS Shared Production Unit to deliver against requirements from internal and external customers, such as product ramp-ups, launches of new products, production transfers, and economic optimizations. You will take responsibility for the successful execution of these projects in alignment with customer expectations and act as the go-to person for ZEISS internal and external customers, including customers’ senior management.

1. Identify, scope, structure, and lead strategic and operational projects together with ZEISS Strategic Business Units, external customers, and the entire team of the Shared Production Unit.
2. Be the go-to person for all projects, taking responsibility for their successful delivery and representing these projects to internal and external stakeholders.
3. Manage these projects to ensure successful delivery.
4. Bring innovative perspectives into your projects to find the best solutions in a multi-stakeholder environment.

Your Profile

1. An academic degree with excellent final grades in sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, economics, or a related field.
2. 7+ years of practical experience in management consulting, project management, corporate strategy, operations, or sales/key account management in ZEISS-related industries.
3. Proven track record in customer-facing roles (e.g., consulting, sales, key account management).
4. Previous experience in operations, production engineering, or R&D within ZEISS-related industries.
5. Strong entrepreneurial and strategic thinking with a solution-oriented mindset.
6. Experience managing complex projects within a matrix organization.
7. Background in strategic functions, demonstrating analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
8. Ability to effectively collaborate with all organizational levels and align stakeholders in complex environments.
9. Strong lateral leadership capabilities.
10. Fluent in English and German.