Senior Director Operations

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at https://www.jnj.comJob FunctionProject/Program Management GroupJob Sub FunctionProject/Program ManagementJob CategoryPeople LeaderAll Job Posting Locations:Ringaskiddy, Cork, IrelandJob DescriptionAbout Innovative Medicine Our expertise in Innovative Medicine is informed and inspired by patients, whose insights fuel our science-based advancements. Visionaries like you work on teams that save lives by developing the medicines of tomorrow.Join us in developing treatments, finding cures, and pioneering the path from lab to life while championing patients every step of the way.Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/innovative-medicineWe are searching for the best talent for Senior Director Operations, J&J Innovative Medicine, Ringaskiddy, Ireland.Purpose: This is an excellent opportunity for a Senior professional to head up the Operations Team and report directly into the site General Manager. This opportunity is a direct result of the strong growth and development of the J&J IM site in Ringaskiddy which continues to grow and expand.This role leads the Operations function within J&J Innovative Medicine, Biotherapeutics, overseeing a team of over 350 professionals. The position is accountable for the end-to-end manufacturing of drug substance biopharmaceutical products, ensuring full compliance with cGMP, corporate policies, and international regulatory standards.As a key member of the Site Leadership Team, the role contributes to daily operations and long-term strategic planning. It ensures that all activities within Operations are aligned with business and customer needs, executed according to schedule, and supported by a high-performing, well-trained workforce.The leader promotes a lean, world-class manufacturing culture focused on continuous improvement, operational excellence, and GMP readiness. This includes maintaining high standards in housekeeping, documentation, and safety practices across the facility.Collaboration is central to the role: both cross-functionally within the site and externally across the Internal Manufacturing Biotherapeutics Platform and industry forums. The position also supports strategic initiatives and technology evolution to ensure the site remains competitive and future-ready.You Will Be Responsible ForLeadership & Strategic DirectionAct as a role model, consistently demonstrating high standards aligned with the J&J Credo and Leadership Expectations.Lead Operations with clear direction, ensuring goals and expectations are well-communicated and achieved.Collaborate with the Site Leadership Team to shape site strategy, structure, and culture for optimal performance.Serve as General Manager delegate when required.Talent Acquisition, Development & EngagementEnsure recruitment, training, and development align with business needs, succession planning, and site strategy.Provide ongoing training to meet regulatory and operational requirements.Mentor and coach team members to enhance performance and growth.Promote open communication, encourage feedback, and involve colleagues in decision-making.Compliance, Safety & Operational ExcellenceEnsure all Operations activities comply with cGMP, EHS, corporate, and regulatory standards.Champion safe behaviors and environmental best practices.Maintain high standards of housekeeping and documentation readiness.Monitor manufacturing, quality, and EHS KPIs to ensure targets are met or exceeded.Collaboration & InnovationDrive cross-functional alignment with internal and external partners (e.g., R&D, VCM).Engage with other sites and industry forums to stay ahead of digital and technology trends.QualificationsDegree in Science or Engineering with Lean accreditation. Minimum of 15 years of experience within a pharmaceutical ideally or GMP regulated Operations Department environment.10 years of experience in the leadership of people and resources in an Operations Department Department/ Operations Department function. Previous experience in leading large groups in operations, maintenance, and/or quality will be a differential.Specific experience in biotech drug substance manufacturing.Knowledge and experience in lean Operations Department and process excellence methodologies.Black Belt Certified – Lean Six Sigma knowledge preferred.Travel Requirements: < 15%