Project Director/Site Head, Texas

Novartis • Indianapolis, IN

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Build a new site and shape life‑changing medicines from day one. As Project Director/Site Head, you’ll lead our Radioligand Therapy (RLT) drug product manufacturing project from design through commercialization—delivering operational readiness, regulatory compliance, and Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) excellence on time and within budget. You’ll set strategy, manage risk, and build a capable organization that seamlessly moves from project to steady‑state operations, partnering closely across Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Science & Technology, Finance and People & Organizations. You will drive technology transfer, readiness for inspections, and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) integration while championing current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) standards and an inclusive, high‑performing culture. This is a unique opportunity to create a modern, patient‑centric facility in Texas and lead it into its commercial future—so your decisions tangibly accelerate access to therapies for patients and communities. The selected candidate for this role is expected to assume the position of Site Head following the successful completion of the project phase and the site’s designation as a commercial facility.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, or Management.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in manufacturing, technical operations, or supply chain management in pharma or life sciences.
• Management experience outside of Pharma may contribute up to 5 of those years (i.e. Other Manufacturing, Military, Consulting)
• Proven leadership and change management skills with success in building and managing teams.
• Ability to work effectively in a global, networked environment.
• Strong cultural and intercultural awareness.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Radioligand Therapy manufacturing.
• Prior involvement in building and leading site organizations or being part of Commercial Readiness Projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Texas drug product manufacturing project from design through commercialization.
• Develop and manage project plans, deliverables, and team performance to meet targets.
• Align project strategy and execution with senior business stakeholders and cross-functional leaders.
• Build and transition a capable organization from project phase to commercial operations.
• Ensure regulatory, quality, and HSE compliance readiness for inspections and audits.
• Oversee project budget, schedule, and procurement to achieve financial and operational goals.
• Champion Novartis values, fostering an inclusive, high-performing culture and talent development.

Benefits

• US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits.
• In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

What This Job Offers

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