Work ScheduleStandard (Mon-Fri)
Environmental ConditionsOffice
Job DescriptionPosition SummaryThe Senior Staff Program Manis ager is a strategic leadership role within the Chemical Analysis Division (CAD), responsible for driving complex, global, cross-functional programs that advance product development, business transformation, and operational excellence initiatives.
Reporting to the Director of the Business Transformation Office, this role partners closely with Vice Presidents, General Managers, R&D Directors, and senior functional leaders to deliver high-impact programs aligned with division strategy and financial objectives.
This position requires a seasoned program leader with strong executive presence, deep project management expertise, business and financial acumen, and a proven track record of leading complex program initiatives in a matrixed global organization. This is a Madison, WI based position with up to 15% travel required
Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Program Leadership- Lead large, complex, cross-functional programs from ideation through implementation and sustainment.
- Drive global initiatives that advance CAD business development, product innovation, and operational optimization.
- Balance strategic priorities with tactical execution to ensure successful delivery of long-term objectives.
- Align programs with organizational goals, financial targets, and industry best practices.
Portfolio & PMO Excellence- Define, implement, and continuously improve program and project management methodologies, tools, metrics, and governance processes.
- Oversee program portfolio performance, ensuring milestones, deliverables, quality, budget, and timelines are achieved.
- Establish and monitor KPIs to evaluate program health and identify improvement opportunities.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting through program management information systems.
Business Transformation & Change Management- Lead and support change management initiatives across product development, operations, and business processes.
- Manage scope, risk, cost, quality, schedule, and contractual obligations through structured governance and change control.
- Identify risks and issues early, develop mitigation strategies, and drive resolution to maintain program momentum.
- Champion continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
Executive & Stakeholder Engagement- Develop strong partnerships with senior leaders and functional stakeholders to ensure alignment and accountability.
- Provide executive-level communication, status reporting, and decision support.
- Influence cross-functional teams to achieve alignment and drive outcomes in a matrixed environment.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on program strategy, prioritization, and execution risks.
People Leadership & Development- Lead, mentor, and develop Project Managers and program team members.
- Foster collaboration, clarify roles and responsibilities, and manage competing priorities across teams.
- Build organizational capability in program management best practices.
- Support talent development and succession planning within the PMO.
Education- Bachelor's degree required.
- Advanced degree (MBA or equivalent) preferred.
Experience- 10+ years of progressive experience in program/project management, business operations, or transformation leadership.
- Demonstrated success leading multiple complex programs in a global, matrixed organization.
- Experience in R&D environments, analytical instrumentation, manufacturing, or related technical industries preferred.
- Proven track record in business transformation and change management initiatives.
- Strong experience managing cross-functional teams and influencing senior stakeholders.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Strong command of program management methodologies, tools, and governance frameworks.
- Deep understanding of financial principles, budgeting, and business case development.
- Excellent executive communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to manage ambiguity and competing priorities effectively.
- Strong critical thinking, risk management, and decision-making capabilities.
- Demonstrated conflict resolution and team leadership abilities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Project, Teams, Excel).
- Strong strategic foresight combined with operational execution discipline.
ImpactThe Senior Staff Program Manager plays a critical role in accelerating innovation, driving operational excellence, and enabling strategic transformation within CAD. This leader ensures that high-priority programs are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with Thermo Fisher Scientific's mission to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.
