Upstream Operations Manager for SPM (AET/ENT & Joint Repair Segments)

Smith+Nephew•Mansfield, MA

About The Position

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. Join us as an Upstream Operations Manager for our Sports Medicine and ENT Business Unit, where you will help shape the future of our Joint Repair Segment and/or AET and ENT Segments. This is a strategic, high‑visibility role ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of product strategy, operational excellence, and cross‑functional leadership. You will play a key part in ensuring that innovative new products and lifecycle improvements are translated into operational plans that deliver for our customers globally. With two openings available, this is a unique opportunity to join a growing team and make an impact across multiple segments. What will you be doing? Owning upstream portfolio execution for the SPM and ENT business, aligning product strategy with operational readiness and commercial impact. Leading portfolio management and lifecycle planning, including profitability assessments, ROI modeling, market fit evaluations and product phase out decisions. Driving end to end value chain performance and continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma. Developing data driven insights and scenario modelling using tools such as SAP, Power BI, Tableau, SQL or advanced Excel. Ensuring operational readiness by integrating technical feasibility requirements with design, supply chain and commercial priorities. Leading cross functional alignment with R and D, marketing, sales, finance and supply chain to execute portfolio actions and product transitions. Preparing clear, concise and executive ready communications that simplify complex operational topics. Championing adaptive leadership behaviors including agility, resilience and continuous learning.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, supply chain or a related field.
Minimum 7 to 10 years of experience in product management, operations or supply chain within a cross functional environment.
Strong technical, analytical and digital tool capabilities, with the ability to turn data into actionable insights.
Demonstrated ability to lead without authority, influence stakeholders and manage competing priorities.
A proactive, agile and collaborative approach with a commitment to governance discipline and continuous improvement.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or certifications such as MBA, Lean Six Sigma, APICS CPIM/CSCP or PMP are highly valued.

Responsibilities

Owning upstream portfolio execution for the SPM and ENT business, aligning product strategy with operational readiness and commercial impact.
Leading portfolio management and lifecycle planning, including profitability assessments, ROI modeling, market fit evaluations and product phase out decisions.
Driving end to end value chain performance and continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma.
Developing data driven insights and scenario modelling using tools such as SAP, Power BI, Tableau, SQL or advanced Excel.
Ensuring operational readiness by integrating technical feasibility requirements with design, supply chain and commercial priorities.
Leading cross functional alignment with R and D, marketing, sales, finance and supply chain to execute portfolio actions and product transitions.
Preparing clear, concise and executive ready communications that simplify complex operational topics.
Championing adaptive leadership behaviors including agility, resilience and continuous learning.