Project Director/Site Head, Texas

Band

Level 6

Job Description Summary

#LI-Onsite
Location: Texas, United States

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.

Job Description

Key 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.

Essential 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.

Desirable Requirements:

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

The salary for this position is expected to range between $160,300 and $297,700 per year. 

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant

skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors. 

Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards. 

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.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click Thrive Together.

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EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to [email protected] call +1 (877)395-2339 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

https://www.novartis.com/careers/careers-research/notice-all-applicants-us-job-openings

Salary Range

$160,300.00 - $297,700.00

Skills Desired

Assembly Language, Biotechnology, Change Management, Chemistry, Continual Improvement Process, Cost Reduction, Finance, General Hse Knowledge     , Incentive Program, Installations (Computer Programs), Knowledge Of Gmp, Leadership, Lean Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, Manufacturing Production, Operational Excellence, Productivity, Purchase, Six Sigma