Pharma Program Director & Owner's Rep Lead

AtkinsRéalis; Vestavia Hills (AL); On-site; USD 190,000 - 235,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k) with vesting

Employee stock purchase plan

Paid time off

Job summary

AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Program Director/Owner's Representative Lead for a pharmaceutical megaproject spanning multiple states, including AL. You will serve as the client's single point of accountability across the full lifecycle, directing all workstreams and aligning scope, schedule, and performance.

The role requires 20+ years (BS) or 15+ years (MS/MBA) with at least 5 years managing highly complex programs and experience with large-scale pharma or heavy process industries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or related field with 10+ years related experience.
• 20+ years professional experience (BS) or 15+ years (MS/MBA), with at least 5 years managing highly complex projects/programs in a senior capacity.
• Experience working on multi-billion-dollar programs.
• Pharmaceutical industry experience; also will consider experience in other heavy process industries such as semiconductor/high tech, chemical, EV battery, and oil and gas.
• Experience building teams and processes/systems from scratch.
• Engineering design experience desirable.
• Demonstrate strong leadership and managerial skills to effectively guide and support team members.
• Excellent communications skills and comfort with executive level client interface.

Responsibilities

• Plan and organize observation and documentation of construction projects.
• Schedule and coordinate observation of ongoing work and testing and sampling of materials.
• Assign, lead and supervise internal staff engaged in observation and testing and in related record keeping.
• Monitor contractors' progress against schedule and prepare progress reports.
• Oversee all aspects of program, from chartering and governance, to design and construction, to controls and technology.
• Review payment requests and determine amount owing to contractor(s) based on on-site observations and contract stipulations.
• Oversee compilation of final estimate documents.
• Develop/maintain master program plans, budgets, and schedules.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams and ensure alignment to client program objectives.
• Ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope / budget, and meet quality standards.
• Perform non-manual field work that involves a combination of conventional and complex features, requiring the application of sound and diversified professional knowledge in board areas of assignments, usually including the coordination of various projects.
• Serve as the sole accountable leader for the owner's representative program across all phases, from planning through execution and closeout.
• Lead, coordinate, and direct all workstream leads.
• Establish clear program governance structures, decision-making protocols, and escalation pathways.
• Drive a high-performing, integrated team environment aligned to client strategic objectives.
• Act as the primary point of contact for client stakeholders, ensuring strong, transparent, and trusted relationships.
• Translate client business objectives into actionable program strategies and execution plans.
• Provide clear, consistent communication on program status, risks, and performance metrics.
• Facilitate executive-level reporting and decision-making.
• Own and govern overall program scope, ensuring alignment with approved objectives and contractual requirements.
• Ensure seamless coordination across all program functions, contractors, and external partners.
• Oversee integrated master scheduling, ensuring milestones and critical path activities are achieved.
• Supervise field representatives and field office personnel, ensuring performance standards, accountability, and consistent communication.
• Apply analytical and organizational skills to manage workflows, prioritize tasks, and improve operational efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Client relationship management

Strategic planning

Communications

Program management

Construction oversight

Budgeting

Governance

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management or related field

MS/MBA preferred

Job description

AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Program Director/Owner's Representative Lead for a pharmaceutical megaproject spanning multiple states, including AL. You will serve as the client's single point of accountability across the full lifecycle, directing all workstreams and aligning scope, schedule, and performance.

The role requires 20+ years (BS) or 15+ years (MS/MBA) with at least 5 years managing highly complex programs and experience with large-scale pharma or heavy process industries.