Director, Operational Excellence

Apellis • Waltham, MA

82d • $181,000 - $272,000

About The Position

The Director of Operational Excellence plays a pivotal role in shaping how the Technical Operations organization executes its work—through structured project delivery, standardized methodologies, and consistent operating mechanisms. This individual will be responsible for driving operational effectiveness across global Tech Ops teams by implementing best-in-class frameworks, governance models, and tools that ensure efficient execution of initiatives. This role requires a strong leader with experience in project portfolio management, cross-functional coordination, and operational frameworks. The Director will serve as the central point for aligning key initiatives with business objectives, enforcing consistent processes, and fostering accountability across teams. Preferred job location: Waltham, MA. Remote candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis or relocation may be provided.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, MS) preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in life sciences, biotech, or pharmaceutical operations, preferably in manufacturing, supply chain, or quality environments.
• Proven experience in project or portfolio management, operational governance, and driving process consistency across large, matrixed organizations.
• Deep understanding of execution methodologies, such as project lifecycle management, performance tracking, and risk mitigation.
• Experience implementing governance structures (e.g., RACI, stage gates) and standardized delivery models.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence across levels and functions.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with an ability to structure work, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results under tight timelines.
• High attention to detail, operational discipline, and a proactive, problem-solving mindset.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Technical Operations project portfolio, ensuring initiatives are effectively scoped, resourced, and executed in alignment with organizational priorities and long-term objectives.
• Establish and maintain operational governance frameworks that bring clarity to roles, responsibilities (e.g. RACI), and decision-making processes.
• Drive adoption of standardized methodologies and tools (e.g. operational master plan aligned with corporate goals and functional strategy, risk registers, dashboards) to ensure consistent execution across global teams.
• Serve as the central point of coordination for Technical Operations initiatives, driving progress, proactively removing roadblocks, escalating critical issues, and ensuring on-time delivery of key commitments.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration across manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and other Tech Ops functions to ensure seamless execution and alignment.
• Monitor and report on key operational metrics, proactively identifying risk areas and leading structured problem solving and ensuring accountability for performance outcomes.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts by analyzing performance data, identifying bottlenecks, and recommending process enhancements.
• Support the development of operating rhythms (e.g. weekly reviews, monthly operational reviews) that drive accountability and visibility into project progress and resource utilization.
• Prepare TO Leadership Meeting agenda suggesting appropriate topics, governance over resources, KPI's and decision making.
• Collaborate closely with the PMO, Finance, and functional leaders to align on project planning, execution, and resource allocation.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with company match
• Inclusive family building benefits
• Flexible time off
• Summer and winter shutdowns
• Paid family leave
• Disability and life insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees