Associate Director, Manufacturing Technology Lead

Job Description

We are looking for a highly experienced and influential automation leader who thrives in complex GMP environments and is passionate about driving digital transformation and smart manufacturing initiatives.

For our Animal Health location in Boxmeer, we are looking for an Associate Director, Manufacturing Technology Lead.

Welcome to our team

Our Animal Health site in Boxmeer is part of a global network dedicated to the development and production of high-quality animal health products under strict GMP regulations.

Within our engineering and manufacturing organization, we focus on delivering innovative, future-ready solutions that enable efficient, compliant, and scalable production. Digital transformation and automation play a key role in achieving our vision of Smart Factories and Autonomous Manufacturing.

You will work closely with global and local stakeholders across Engineering, Manufacturing, IT/OT, and Quality. The team combines deep technical expertise with strong collaboration, aiming to deliver impactful and sustainable solutions across our sites.

About the role

As AD Manufacturing Technology Lead, you are responsible for defining, designing, and delivering Operational Technology (OT) solutions within major engineering projects. You act as a technical authority and strategic leader, ensuring alignment with global automation standards and driving the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies.

You play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing by integrating advanced automation systems, enabling data-driven decision-making, and supporting autonomous operations. This role combines technical leadership, stakeholder management, and project execution in a highly regulated environment.

Key responsibilities

• Define and own the Operational Technology (OT) scope within site and global engineering projects
• Collaborate with project stakeholders to ensure alignment on scope, strategy, and delivery
• Develop OT strategies and secure stakeholder approval
• Provide technical leadership and design assurance across all project phases, from concept to commissioning
• Ensure systems are designed and delivered in line with global automation standards
• Drive digital transformation through implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies
• Partner with global IT/OT teams to define standards and technology roadmaps
• Collaborate with internal and external engineering partners to deliver complex projects
• Manage communication and alignment between vendors, contractors, and internal teams
• Ensure integration of systems across IT architecture, MES, process historians, and data platforms
• Support manufacturing operations, quality, and supply continuity through robust system design
• Ensure that delivered solutions are future-ready and aligned with operational needs

Your profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, IT, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Extensive experience with GMP Process Control Systems (PCS) in pharmaceutical or biotech environments
• Strong expertise in DCS, SCADA, and PLC systems, including full lifecycle delivery such as design, procurement, and commissioning
• Solid understanding of biotech and API manufacturing processes
• Experience with drug product automation, such as vial filling and packaging lines, is an advantage
• Proven track record in technical leadership and project execution
• Strong understanding of OT/IT integration, including MES, data historians, and analytics platforms
• Experience with secure system integration and automation architectures
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Fluent in English
• Knowledge of GMP regulations and regulatory expectations
• Experience with OT cybersecurity, electronic batch records (EBR), and data analytics
• Familiarity with laboratory and warehouse automation systems

What we offer

We offer a truly global, dynamic, and challenging environment where digital excellence directly supports patient and animal health. You can expect strong opportunities for professional growth and a competitive total rewards package.

• A 3% year-end allowance and an annual bonus based on individual and company performance
• A minimum of 35.5 days of paid leave
• Travel expense reimbursement and a solid pension plan
• A high-quality company restaurant offering fresh and healthy options daily
• Excellent accessibility: the train station is located directly at the main entrance, and ample parking is available
• A beautiful private park on site, ideal for walking, taking a break, or relaxing
• Mental wellbeing support via Lyra Health for you and your family members
• Access to a dedicated prayer/meditation room
• Extensive career development opportunities thanks to the size of the site and the presence of many disciplines and global departments represented in Boxmeer
• A workplace within an organization that continues to grow and evolve

Animal Health Division

Our Animal Health division is a trusted global leader in veterinary medicine, dedicated to the health and well-being of animals. We are a global team of professionals working together to make a positive difference in animal care and the world’s food supply.

Required Skills

Audit Management, Business Process Improvements, Capital Projects, Data Management, Digital Transformation, GMP Compliance, Manufacturing Engineering, Operational Technology (OT), Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Problem Management, Procurement, Project Management, Project Management Engineering, Project Procurement Management, Quality Management, Real-Time Programming, Regulatory Compliance, Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), Technology Strategies