Operational Excellence Leader, R&D

Sanofi•Morristown, NJ

1d•$161,250 - $232,917•Onsite

About The Position

Sanofi R&D is undergoing a significant transformation to accelerate innovation, increase productivity, and deliver breakthrough medicines to patients faster. To enable this ambition, Sanofi is establishing R&D Transformation, a new organization strategic modernization team within R&D Operations, designed to drive enterprise-level changes through disciplined execution, operational excellence, and sustainable value realization. R&D Transformation acts as a catalyst for change across the R&D organization, bridging strategic priorities with operational execution to ensure rapid adoption and lasting impact. Led by the Global Head of R&D Transformation, the organization is structured around three core pillars: Execution of strategic modernization initiatives, Operational excellence, and Post-merger integration. The R&D Operational Excellence Leader is a key member of the R&D Operations Transformation team, serving as a trusted advisor to optimize end-to-end functionality across the value chain. This role focuses on partnering with R&D stakeholders to identify, design, and deliver high-impact performance solutions that drive organizational effectiveness and productivity. Success in this role means enabling R&D Functions to achieve process excellence through strategic advisory support and expert guidance on priority initiatives. As an R&D Operational Excellence Leader, you will serve as a strategic partner and change catalysts, advising R&D functions on performance improvement opportunities and guiding the selection and execution of optimal deployment approaches (i.e., booster, digital, end-to-end). You will design tailored solutions, manage multiple client engagements simultaneously, and deliver measurable, sustainable results that match stakeholder expectations. Join the engine of Sanofi’s mission where deep immunosenescent meets bold, AI-powered research. In R&D, you’ll drive breakthroughs that could turn the impossible into possible for millions.

Requirements

10+ years in operational excellence consulting, internal consulting, or advisory roles, preferably within pharmaceutical or biotechnology R&D environment
Proven track record of managing multiple stakeholder engagements simultaneously and delivering measurable results
Demonstrated success leading end-to-end projects from diagnostic through implementation and value realization
Strong exposure to change management methodologies, stakeholder engagement strategies, and digital transformation initiatives
Deep understanding of pharmaceutical R&D operations, regulatory environments, and industry best practices
Client-focused approach with strong business acumen and ability to balance strategic thinking with pragmatic execution
Exceptional ability to build trusted advisor relationships, influence without authority in matrix organizations, and navigate complex political landscapes
High degree of flexibility to work across multiple projects, adjust to changing priorities, and thrive in ambiguous environments
Capacity to drive initiatives and decision-making, shape vision, challenge status quo with innovation and pragmatism, and inspire trust
Strong mentoring abilities with capacity to develop people, provide structured feedback, and build organizational capability
Self-directed with ability to take calculated risks, anticipate potential issues, and drive results with minimal supervision
Deep knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies (FIT4Future); ability to select and adapt approaches based on client context
Excellent understanding of R&D processes, value chains, and operational dynamics
Superior analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights
Solid financial analysis and management accounting knowledge to quantify business cases and demonstrate ROI
Proven ability to design tailored solutions that address root causes and deliver sustainable impact
Bachelor's degree is required.
English (fluent)

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in a scientific field, engineering, business administration, or related discipline; MBA or advanced degree a plus
Familiarity with R&D processes and regulatory requirements in the pharmaceutical industry
Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, advanced Excel)
Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt)
Experience with digital transformation and AI/automation solution deployment

Responsibilities

Facilitate cross-functional workshops with R&D Functions and stakeholders to map, streamline, and standardize processes, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities
Develop comprehensive project plans, deliverables, and success metrics for each consulting engagement
Design and implement change management strategies that ensure stakeholder buy-in and sustainable adoption
Provide expert guidance on digital/IA solution selection, deployment, and optimization to maximize value realization
Communicate effectively across all organizational levels, translating complex concepts into actionable insights for diverse audiences
Facilitate alignment of improvement initiatives with R&D strategic priorities through structured stakeholder engagement
Present findings, recommendations, and progress updates to senior leadership and steering committees
Navigate matrix organizations to influence decision-making and drive consensus among diverse stakeholder groups
Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational efficiency and demonstrate consulting impact
Monitor engagement progress, proactively identify and remove roadblocks, and challenge teams to achieve breakthrough results
Conduct post-implementation reviews to validate value delivery and identify continuous improvement opportunities
Document lessons learned and best practices to enhance consulting methodologies and organizational knowledge
Coach and mentor R&D staff on lean methodologies, process improvement techniques, and change management best practices
Design and deliver training programs that build internal capability and reinforce sustainable change
Develop and continuously optimize standards, playbooks, and toolkits based on engagement insights and client feedback
Foster a culture of continuous improvement through knowledge sharing and capability development