Thermo Fisher Scientific

Director PPI (Operational Excellence) - Join An Industry Leader!

Thermo Fisher Scientific$133K — $178K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Science, or related field.
  • 7+ years of operational management experience in Pharmaceutical, Food, or Cosmetics industries.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience managing direct reports.
  • Strong expertise in operational excellence methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Responsibilities

  • Foster continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
  • Develop and implement change management processes to sustain organizational change.
  • Lead education and training programs on continuous improvement for all employee levels.
  • Manage projects to develop site PPI strategy, ensuring adherence to scope and budget.
  • Collaborate with site leadership to align improvement initiatives with business objectives.
  • Stay current on industry best practices and operational excellence trends.
  • Promote a safe work environment, ensuring compliance with EHS requirements.

Benefits

  • Competitive remuneration package with annual bonus incentive.
  • Comprehensive healthcare options.
  • Opportunities for career development within a forward-thinking organization.
  • Supportive and inclusive company culture emphasizing integrity and innovation.
  • Employee benefits that promote a healthy work-life balance.
Full Job Description
Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions
Office

Job Description

The Director, Practical Process Improvement (PPI), leads strategic change initiatives across the site to improve business and operational performance, support growth, and drive continuous improvement. This role develops organizational capabilities, fosters a culture of continuous improvement, and identifies opportunities to enhance performance through proven operational excellence tools and methodologies.

Working closely with the Corporate PPI function, this position collaborates with and advises corporate leadership on improvement strategies. As a change leader, the role develops and implements change management plans that increase employee engagement, accelerate adoption of new processes, and improve organizational effectiveness. The position is also responsible for deploying applicable training and education programs and contributes directly to site operational and financial performance.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement using methodologies and tools including Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Pull Systems, OEE, waste reduction, benchmarking, and performance assessments.
  • Develop and implement change management processes and tools to support and sustain organizational change.
  • Lead and support education and training programs on PPI principles and continuous improvement practices for employees at all levels, including shop floor staff.
  • Develop the site PPI strategy and deployment plan; manage projects to scope, schedule, and budget while measuring post-implementation benefits.
  • Partner with site leadership to understand business priorities and develop improvement initiatives aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Stay current on industry best practices, emerging methodologies, and operational excellence trends.
  • Promote a safe work environment and ensure compliance with Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) requirements.
  • Lead, develop, and evaluate team members to ensure effective function performance and provide guidance on policies and procedures.
Required Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Business, Science, or a related field.
Experience
  • 7+ years of operational management experience in Operations, Engineering, Quality, Science/Development, or Operational Excellence leadership within the pharmaceutical, food, or cosmetics industries.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience leading and managing direct reports.
Equivalency
  • Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong expertise in operational excellence methodologies, including value stream mapping, business process redesign, Lean, Six Sigma, simulation/modeling, cycle time reduction, and facility layout design.
  • Experience with Shingo Method is a plus
  • Demonstrated success leading large-scale change initiatives and influencing stakeholders across multiple functions and organizational levels.
  • Excellent verbal, written, organizational, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to build relationships, negotiate effectively, and influence senior leadership.
  • Proven ability to balance competing priorities and organizational objectives.
  • Strong business acumen and understanding of business strategy.
  • Demonstrated success as a change agent.
  • Collaborative leadership style with a focus on cross-functional partnership.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Fluent in English.
Standards and Expectations
  • Comply with all Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.
  • Collaborate effectively with colleagues to achieve departmental and project goals.
  • Perform all duties in compliance with Patheon quality systems, SOPs, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Support departmental systems and processes that drive efficient workflow, including visual management and scheduling systems.
  • Maintain a strong customer and patient-focused mindset.
  • Understand and improve key performance indicators (KPIs) through problem-solving and process improvements.
  • Demonstrate adaptability, positive leadership, and support for organizational change.
  • Proactively identify process improvements and communicate risks to timelines.
  • Continuously develop skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
Physical Requirements
  • Light physical activity including walking, sitting, or standing for extended periods.
  • Occasional operation of office and keyboard equipment.
  • Ability to lift light objects as needed.
  • Primarily office-based with occasional exposure to dust, fumes, odors, temperature variations, noise, drafts, or bright lighting.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required, including safety glasses, safety shoes, lab coat, gloves, hair net, beard cover, safety apron, or respirator.


We offer competitive remuneration, annual incentive plan bonus, healthcare, and a range of employee benefits. Thermo Fisher Scientific offers employment with an innovative, forward-thinking organization, and outstanding career and development prospects. We offer an exciting company culture that stands for integrity, intensity, involvement, and innovation!

Compensation
The estimated annualized pay range for this position in Ontario is $133,600.00-$178,100.00.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Careers

Join the vibrant team at Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in serving science and making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. With a workforce of over 75,000 professionals, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers unparalleled job opportunities and a culture of innovation that propels your career to new heights. Work You’ll Do At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to enabling our customers to make the world healthier. Whether you are involved in the development of life-saving drugs or innovative environmental solutions, your work will have a profound impact on society. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering. With Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will lead projects that set standards in scientific inquiry and market leadership. You will work at the intersection of science, technology, and industry expertise, driving digital innovation in every aspect of our business. Join our diverse team of professionals and engage in roles that span across various functions and disciplines. From research and development to marketing and sales, the breadth of job opportunities available means that you can find the perfect match for your skills and passions. Innovative Work As part of our team, you will have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies that foster creativity and innovation. Thermo Fisher Scientific is home to a dynamic range of career paths, all designed to challenge you and help you grow as a professional. Our employment philosophy emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members have the opportunity to thrive. We believe in nurturing talent through robust training programs, leadership development, and opportunities for career advancement. Be Part of a Great Team Working at Thermo Fisher Scientific means being part of a global network of enthusiastic, talented, and ambitious individuals. Our culture is built on collaboration, where each member’s unique skills and perspectives are valued. You will enjoy benefits that support both your professional growth and personal well-being. Future-Proof Your Career Embark on a journey of growth and continuous learning with Thermo Fisher Scientific. We offer a variety of training and development programs that cater to your interests and career goals. From internships for budding scientists to leadership training for aspiring executives, our programs are designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful and fulfilling career. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to advancements in health and science: [Read More] Learn about our leadership in environmental sustainability and how you can contribute: [Read More] The Thermo Fisher Scientific Difference Our global presence and commitment to innovation mean that your work extends beyond borders and makes a tangible impact worldwide. The collaboration between our teams drives our leadership in the scientific community and contributes to a culture that embraces diversity and fosters professional growth. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interest. We are always on the lookout for passionate, curious, and driven team players. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to our meaningful work. SEARCH THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific
Size
130,000 employees
Market Cap
$213.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.3 billion
Founded
1956
5 Year Trend
+16.5%
Revenue
$32.2 billion
NASDAQ

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