Associate Director, External Manufacturing Operations

Merck & Co. • West Point, PA

382d • $122,800 - $193,300 • Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Director of External Manufacturing Operations (ExMOAD) at Merck Sharp & Dohme is responsible for managing relationships with external partners to ensure compliance, supply, continuous improvement, and cost-effectiveness. This role acts as a liaison between the manufacturing division and external partners, overseeing cross-functional teams to meet customer demand and maintain high standards of quality and safety. The ExMOAD is accountable for all aspects of the partnership, including production planning, risk management, and operational excellence, while also leading strategic initiatives and ensuring alignment with company goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferably in Engineering, Science, or Business.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in manufacturing and compliance.
• Deep understanding of GMP and EHS compliance and quality compliance risk.
• Proven Lean Six Sigma skills to deliver compliant supply and achieve high quality at low cost.
• Strong business and financial acumen to apply economic and industry data for decision-making.
• Proven skills and expertise in manufacturing management at a senior level.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills.

Nice To Haves

• Minimum 8 years' experience in commercial/business and manufacturing roles, with significant management experience.
• Project Management Certification.

Responsibilities

• Accountable for meeting customer demand at the external partner by achieving excellence in compliance, supply, continuous improvement, and cost.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all dealings between the manufacturing division and external partners.
• Oversee the relationship with external partners and manage cross-functional teams responsible for delivering requirements.
• Ensure compliance with quality risk management, deviation management, product release, and change control.
• Drive risk assessment across the value chain to manage and mitigate risks to ensure zero interruption of the supply chain.
• Partner with procurement, quality, and technology teams on commercial aspects of the relationship.
• Participate in cross-functional teams for due diligence and support new relationship ownership post-siting approval.
• Maintain the integrity of the Master Supply Agreement and ensure contract terms are executed properly.
• Accountable for inventory control and documentation of material disposition.
• Lead continuous improvement activities and identify operational excellence opportunities with external partners.

Benefits

• Paid holidays
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree