Director of Packaging Operations

Sanofi • Swiftwater, PA

42d

About The Position

Join Sanofi's Manufacturing & Supply (M&S) organization as Director of Packaging at our premier Swiftwater facility, where you'll lead cutting-edge packaging operations that deliver life-saving vaccines to patients worldwide. This strategic leadership role offers the opportunity to drive digital transformation, operational excellence, and sustainable manufacturing practices while leading a world-class team in one of the industry's most advanced packaging environments. As Director of Packaging within the Formulation, Filling, Inspection, and Packaging (FFIP) platform, you will serve as a key member of the M&S leadership team, driving strategic initiatives that directly impact global vaccine supply. This role combines operational leadership with strategic vision, positioning you at the forefront of pharmaceutical manufacturing innovation while ensuring patients receive safe, effective vaccines when they need them most. We deliver 4.3 billion healthcare solutions to people every year, thanks to the flawless planning and meticulous eye for detail of our Manufacturing & Supply teams. With your talent and ambition, we can do even more to protect people from infectious diseases and bring hope to patients and their families

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Business administration, Operations Management, or related fields.
• 12+ years of progressive pharmaceutical manufacturing or medical devices experience with demonstrated expertise in packaging operations.
• 7+ years of people leadership experience, including managing managers in complex manufacturing environments
• Proven track record of leading large-scale operational improvements and digital transformation initiatives
• Deep knowledge of pharmaceutical packaging technologies, serialization systems, and track-and-trace requirements
• Expertise in cGMP compliance, FDA regulations, and international pharmaceutical quality standards
• Experience with advanced packaging equipment including high-speed filling lines, inspection systems, and automated packaging solutions
• Proficiency in manufacturing systems (MES, ERP, LIMS) and data analytics tools for operational decision-making
• Strategic thinking with ability to translate business objectives into operational excellence
• Change leadership experience driving digital transformation and process optimization initiatives
• Exceptional communication skills with ability to influence and collaborate across all organizational levels
• Results orientation with proven ability to deliver complex projects on time and within budget

Nice To Haves

• MBA, Masters degree in Engineering or related fields - preferred
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher)
• Experience with vaccine manufacturing or sterile product packaging operations
• International assignment experience or global manufacturing exposure
• Sustainability program leadership experience in manufacturing environments

Responsibilities

• Reports to: FFIP Platform Head
• Direct Reports: Packaging PCU Leads, Managers, and Building Owner/HSE Champion
• Matrix Relationships: Cross-functional collaboration with Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Global teams
• Budget Responsibility: Multi-million dollar packaging operations budget
• Operational Excellence Leadership:
• Lead state-of-the-art packaging operations featuring two fully integrated vial and syringe lines with advanced serialization capabilities, converting bulk products to finished pallets in a single, seamless process
• Drive 24x7 manufacturing excellence across packaging, DP logistics, and staging operations, ensuring optimal equipment effectiveness and throughput
• Champion digital transformation initiatives by strategically implementing robotics, automation, AI tools, and Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance operational efficiency
• Ensure regulatory compliance with cGMP standards, FDA requirements, and international regulatory frameworks across all packaging activities
• Strategic Business Partnership :
• Execute product launches for US, European, and international markets, ensuring flawless market introduction of critical vaccines
• Lead capital investment projects and technology transfers, driving ROI optimization and operational capability enhancement
• Collaborate with Global Device Unit and technical teams to resolve complex packaging challenges and implement innovative solutions
• Drive sustainability initiatives including eco-friendly packaging materials, waste reduction, and energy-efficient processes
• People Leadership & Development:
• Cultivate high-performing teams through supportive leadership, coaching, and development of packaging professionals across all levels
• Foster inclusive culture that leverages diverse perspectives and promotes psychological safety, innovation, and continuous learning
• Implement talent development strategies including succession planning, cross-functional assignments, and technical skill advancement
• Champion safety culture ensuring zero-harm workplace practices and comprehensive risk management
• Cross-Functional Collaboration :
• Serve on FFIP Management Committee providing packaging expertise to drive integrated decision-making and shared accountability
• Partner with Manufacturing Excellence teams to implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Collaborate with Quality teams to ensure product integrity and maintain the highest quality standards throughout packaging operations

Benefits

• Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future-focused team.
• Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it's through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.
• Enjoy a thoughtful, well-crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
• Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high-quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks' gender-neutral parental leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees