Sr. Manager, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)

NCBiotech; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 109,000 - 202,000; Full time

Job summary

Novartis is seeking a Senior Manager, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) to lead MES strategy and governance across a major site in Durham, NC. You will drive digital transformation, ensure GMP compliance, and guide a cross-functional team through complex projects that improve manufacturing performance and data integrity.

You will collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, MS&T, Engineering, IT, and Finance to align priorities, manage lifecycle upgrades, and maintain audit-ready systems while

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Engineering, Information Systems, Automation or related technical field.
• Minimum eight years of experience in manufacturing systems, MES, automation, or regulated environments.
• Experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical industry.
• Strong knowledge of GMP and FDA regulations and data integrity.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects in a matrix organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with diverse stakeholders.
• Collaboration across Manufacturing, Quality, MS&T, Engineering, IT, and Finance.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy, governance, and operational oversight for MES across the site.
• Align MES priorities with manufacturing goals, project commitments, and production readiness.
• Oversee MES lifecycle management, including support, enhancements, upgrades, and system compliance.
• Ensure systems meet GMP, FDA, data integrity, and quality requirements.
• Partner across multiple functions to resolve complex system challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement using metrics and KPIs.
• Support 24/7 manufacturing operations through MES troubleshooting.
• Lead cross-functional projects and manage resources and priorities.
• Maintain audit-ready systems, documentation, and compliance practices.
• Develop high-performing teams through coaching and accountability.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Engineering, Information Systems, Automation

Job description

Band

Level 4

Job Description Summary

Unlock the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing as a leader at the forefront of digital operations and manufacturing excellence. As Senior Manager, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), you will play a critical role in enabling safe, compliant, and efficient production that helps bring innovative therapies to patients around the world. Working across Manufacturing, Quality, Manufacturing Sciences and Technology, Engineering, Information Technology, and Automation, you will shape the strategy, performance, and evolution of our manufacturing systems while leading a high-performing team. This is an opportunity to drive digital transformation, influence site-wide priorities, and make a meaningful impact on both operational success and patient outcomes through data-driven decision making, continuous improvement, and collaborative leadership.

Job Description

Location

• This position will be located in Durham, NC and will be an onsite role.
• Novartis is unable to offer relocation support for this role: please only apply if this location is accessible for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategy, governance, and operational oversight for MES across the site.
• Align MES priorities with manufacturing goals, project commitments, and production readiness requirements.
• Oversee MES lifecycle management, including support, enhancements, upgrades, and system compliance.
• Ensure manufacturing systems meet GMP, FDA, data integrity, and quality requirements.
• Partner across Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and IT to resolve complex system challenges.
• Drive continuous improvement using performance metrics, operational trends, and KPIs.
• Support 24/7 manufacturing operations through effective MES troubleshooting and issue resolution.
• Lead cross-functional projects, balancing resources and priorities to deliver business-critical initiatives.
• Maintain audit-ready systems, documentation, procedures, and compliance practices.
• Develop high-performing teams through coaching, talent development, and a culture of accountability.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Engineering, Information Systems, Automation, or a related technical field.
• Minimum eight years of experience in manufacturing systems, MES, automation, or regulated manufacturing environments.
• Experience within the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical industry.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, FDA regulations, electronic manufacturing systems, and data integrity principles.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing technical or manufacturing-focused teams.
• Proven ability to lead complex cross-functional projects within a matrix organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
• Strong collaboration and relationship‑building skills across Manufacturing, Quality, MS&T, Engineering, IT, and Finance.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with MES roadmaps, manufacturing data analytics, KPIs, and digital manufacturing transformation initiatives.
• Experience supporting validation, change control, CAPAs, audit readiness, and regulatory inspections for GMP computerized systems.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary

The salary for this position is expected to range between $108,500 and 201,500 annually

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors.

Your compensation will include a performance‑based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US‑based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time‑off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

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EEO Statement

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e‑mail to [e-mail] or call +1 (877)395‑2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Salary Range

$108,500.00 - $201,500.00

Skills Desired

Data Analytics