At Lonza, we are looking for a Senior Director, Global Head of Program Management to lead and transform the Program Management (PM) function across our Capsules & Health Ingredients (CHI) DFS Nutra network. As the business continues to grow globally, this role will ensure a consistent, high-performing, and customer-centric PM organization that delivers seamless execution across the full product lifecycle.
In this strategic leadership position, you will define and drive the global PM strategy, operating model, and performance across all sites. You will partner closely with senior leaders across Commercial, Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality to ensure Program Management is a key enabler of customer success, operational excellence, and business profitability. This role is critical in transitioning the organization from an order management approach to a fully integrated, lifecycle-driven Program Management model.
Key responsibilities:
Define and implement the global Program Management strategy, aligning with DFS Nutra and Lonza business objectives
Lead and develop a global PM organization, including Site PM Heads, fostering a high-performing and aligned team across regions
Establish and drive a standardized global PM operating model covering the full customer lifecycle from contract signature through development, launch, and recurring business
Drive harmonization of PM processes, tools, governance, and metrics across all sites in line with global standards and COE guidance
Oversee global portfolio health, resource allocation, and delivery performance to ensure consistent execution and optimal outcomes
Partner with Commercial and Account Management teams to align Program Management activities with customer strategies and long-term growth
Build and maintain strong relationships with key global customers, ensuring seamless and consistent engagement across regions
Monitor and improve global delivery KPIs, including on-time delivery, customer satisfaction, and program profitability
Drive continuous improvement and capability building across the PM function, including leadership development and best practice sharing
Lead transformation initiatives, including the shift from order management to a full lifecycle Program Management model
Champion innovation in tools, processes, and ways of working to enhance agility, scalability, and performance
Required qualifications:
Extensive experience in Program Management, Project Management, or related leadership roles, ideally within nutraceuticals, food supplements, or life sciences manufacturing environments
Strong experience managing complex customer programs across the full lifecycle from development to commercialization
Proven track record in building or scaling Program Management functions in a global, matrixed organization
Strong commercial and operational acumen, with the ability to drive profitability and customer value
Deep understanding of project management methodologies, governance, and tools (e.g., SAP ERP, Wrike, Asana, Planview, MS Project)
Strong leadership capability with experience developing high-performing, globally distributed teams
Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills across functions and seniority levels
High adaptability and ability to lead through transformation and organizational change
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or equivalent experience preferred
PMP or equivalent project management certification is a plus
Willingness to travel internationally (up to ~50%)
