Department Manager - Product & Process Development US

About the role

Join the center of excellence for process technology in Process and Product Development (PPD), supporting product and process optimizations for Living Active Bacteria (LAB) cultures across Dairy, Human Health, Meat, Yeast, and Animal Health. As Manager, Process Optimization US, you will connect Product and Process Development, Operations, manufacturing sites, and key cross-functional partners to deliver measurable improvements across the culture value chain.

This global role leads a team of 5 to 10 scientists, specialists, and/or project managers focused on process optimization, production support, and continued development of LAB culture-related processes. Based primarily in the West Allis/Milwaukee office, you will collaborate closely with Product and Process Development, Operations, and commercial and quality interfaces.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and support a team of 5-10 scientists, specialists, and/or project managers, creating clarity, focus, and strong team development.
• Own and drive the optimization portfolio in close collaboration with the team and leadership, ensuring progress and measurable results.
• Drive process optimization initiatives and support production processes across laboratory and production site environments.
• Collaborate with CMO Business Management, Product Management Team, local Production, and Product and Process Development on product portfolio and performance.
• Provide scientific direction and support to site scientists in process optimization-related projects.
• Build strong cross-functional cooperation across Novonesis, including interfaces such as Commercial Development, Innovation, QC IT, Global Engineering, and Corporate Quality Management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioprocessing, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in LAB culture-related roles.
• Strong knowledge of LAB production processes and optimization techniques.
• Proven ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, organization, and time management.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Skills

• A Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioprocessing, or a related field (valued but not required).
• Proficiency in process optimization tools or software.
• Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma principles.
• Experience working across global teams, manufacturing sites, and cross-functional stakeholder groups.

Benefits

• 401(k) with up to a 9% company contribution.
• Minimum of 3 weeks of vacation plus 12 holidays and 2 weeks of Wellness Time.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance.
• Healthcare savings account option.
• Employee assistance program.
• Parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• All benefits begin on your first day.

Pay

Expected base salary: $130,000 – $150,000, dependent on experience.

Schedule

Role is based in West Allis, WI (Hybrid). Travel is expected approximately twice per year.