Director – Automation Lead Emea

Switzerland, Basel Today, Lonza is a global leader in life sciences operating across five continents.


While we work in science, there’s no magic formula to how we do it.


Our greatest scientific solution is talented people working together, devising ideas that help businesses to help people.


In exchange, we let our people own their careers.


Their ideas, big and small, genuinely improve the world.


And that’s the kind of work we want to be part of.


We are seeking a Director – Automation Lead EMEA (m/f/d) to provide strategic and technical leadership for large-scale Capital projects in Europe (excluding Visp Switzerland).


This role involves ensuring projects are appropriately staffed, following schedule, budget, and standards, and acting as a valuable source of knowledge and solutions globally.


This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced leader with strong Automation capabilities to join our team Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families, if needed.


Key responsibilities: Provide technical leadership and ensure flawless direct support in the execution and delivery of Automation Capital projects within Lonza.


Support regional local Automation & MES teams to successfully implement the automation aspects of projects on time, in scope, and on budget.


Lead and coordinate within cross-functional teams consisting of Internal Lonza customers such as Capital Engineering Project Management, Site Operations, Validation, and Quality Assurance to properly determine design needs of multiple simultaneous projects of varying size.


Lead and support the development of global automation team members to achieve world-class results.


Develop and maintain, in collaboration with the procurement organization, positive relationships (master service agreements) with technology suppliers and third-party contractors.


Establish, communicate, and implement a global strategy to standardize Automation & MES systems across Lonza, in partnership with GE Platforms.


Drive innovation within automation and MES to achieve improvements to plant operations, efficiency, and compliance.


Coordinate with other Lonza Centers of Excellence to employ the best solutions for all projects.


Key requirements: Bachelor’s Degree Required – candidate should have a BS in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.


Proven experience with design and operation of API/Biopharmaceutical facilities, both manufacturing and support systems (c GMP manufacturing, pilot plant & laboratories).


Proven experience with and technically strong in process control systems including PCS (Delta V), PLC’s, EBR, and MES systems.


Proven experience in project organization, management, and coordination associated with the execution of capital projects in an industrial environment.


Practical experience in the management and coordination of engineering & construction management consultants, equipment vendors, and contractors.


Experience with integrations of Automation systems to higher-level Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, preferably Syncade and SAP respectively.


English speaking, knowledge of German and other European languages are advantageous.


Demonstrates strong communication and teamwork skills, particularly in stressful situations.


Ability to influence key/senior collaborators.


Demonstrated dedication and a passion for what you do.


Understanding of how to get things done in different cultures.


Problem-solving skills and attention to detail.


Strong analytical and problem solving skills.


Ability to quickly adjust to a dynamic and fast-paced environment.


Every day, Lonza’s products and services have a positive impact on millions of people.


For us, this is not only a great privilege, but also a great responsibility.


How we achieve our business results is just as important as the achievements themselves.


At Lonza, we respect and protect our people and our environment.


Any success we achieve is no success at all if not achieved ethically.


People come to Lonza for the challenge and creativity of solving complex problems and developing new ideas in life sciences.


In return, we offer the satisfaction that comes with improving lives all around the world.


The satisfaction that comes with making a meaningful difference.


Inclusion is one of Lonza’s four core values, alongside integrity, innovation and initiative.


We understand the value of our differences and the benefits they bring to our company, community and culture.


We also recognize the value of every person’s contribution, regardless of characteristics, preferences and beliefs – including race, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and religion.


Reference: R60735