Digital Strategy Lead

CSL•Kankakee, IL

About The Position

The Digital Strategy Lead is responsible for working across operations functions to develop the digital transformation roadmap for operations along with facilitating execution. This role drives the adoption of advanced digital technologies, data analytics, and automation to enhance operational efficiency, quality, compliance, and innovation. The position partners with cross-functional teams to ensure digital initiatives are aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements and delivers measurable value across the manufacturing network. This role partners closely with I&T Operations Business Partner to ensure aligned objectives and governance.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Business, or a related field.
8+ years of progressive experience leading digital transformation initiatives within life sciences, biopharma, manufacturing, or other highly regulated industries.
Demonstrated success developing and executing enterprise-wide digital transformation strategies that drive business value, operational excellence, and organizational change in complex, matrixed environments.
Deep understanding of digital manufacturing, data-driven decision making, automation, advanced analytics, AI/ML, and cloud-based platforms.
Proven ability to identify, prioritize, and implement technology-enabled business improvements across functions, including operations, quality, supply chain, R&D, or commercial organizations.
Strong track record of leading cross-functional teams, influencing senior stakeholders, and driving adoption of new digital capabilities through effective change management and communication strategies.
Exceptional program and project management skills, with experience overseeing large-scale transformation initiatives from strategy development through execution and value realization.

Responsibilities

Define and execute the digital strategy for operations, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and industry best practices.
Develop and maintain a comprehensive digital transformation roadmap, including AI, automation, data analytics, and Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Lead cross-functional teams to deliver and scale digital initiatives, ensuring successful implementation and adoption across global manufacturing sites.
Champion the integration of digital technologies to streamline workflows, enhance data integrity, and enable real-time decision-making.
Evaluate and implement emerging technologies (AI/ML, digital twins, cloud computing, IoT) to drive innovation and operational excellence.
Leverage advanced analytics and machine learning to generate actionable insights, optimize processes, and support proactive decision-making.
Drive the development of digital dashboards, KPIs, and reporting tools to monitor performance and value delivery.
Promote awareness, adoption, and change management for digital initiatives, fostering a digital-first culture across operations.
Serve as a strategic thought partner to senior leadership, providing insights on digital enablement, value creation, and emerging trends.
Collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure seamless integration of digital solutions and alignment with business needs.
Support governance and decision-making processes by preparing executive-level content, facilitating meetings, and implementing action items effectively.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging digital tools and methodologies (Agile, Lean, Six Sigma) to optimize manufacturing performance.
Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform and adapt digital strategies.