Director, Environmental Health and Safety

About the Role

This role will provide strategic leadership for Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) performance, compliance, and risk management across a global business area. Lead the development and execution of innovative EHS programs that prevent significant incidents, strengthen regulatory compliance, and foster a culture of safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement. Partner with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to integrate EHS into business strategy, operational decision-making, and daily activities. Build organizational capability by developing and mentoring site and above-site EHS professionals. Lead a global team of direct and indirect EHS professionals while driving operational excellence, effective risk mitigation, and consistent EHS performance across all supported locations.

Responsibilities

• Provide functional EHS guidance to AbbVie organizations supported by manufacturing site EHS leads and staff.
• Develop programs and systems to prevent catastrophic safety and environmental events.
• Understand regional and global business drivers and regulations.
• Engage in high-level negotiations with external EHS regulatory agencies worldwide.
• Stay current on emerging technologies and regulatory issues impacting the business.
• Work in a matrix organization to partner with Operations and business support functions to ensure regulatory compliance and consistent EHS program implementation globally.
• Contribute to the global EHS vision and Long-Range Plan (LRP) strategy.
• Develop and maintain EHS standards, policies, systems, and methods.
• Create regulatory strategies to minimize liability, support business growth, and enhance operational flexibility.
• Collaborate with EHS leaders to understand trends, issues, and business implications.
• Collaborate closely with AbbVie corporate EHS resources on global EHS issues.
• Ensure compliance at country, federal, state, and local levels related to safety, environmental, industrial hygiene, emergency response, incident investigation, EHS training, and high-level presentations.
• Manage staffing, mentoring, and development of above-site and site EHS professionals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, environmental science, occupational safety, or industrial hygiene is required; a Master’s degree is preferred.
• 15 years of EHS experience with a minimum of 10 years of supervisory/managerial experience.
• Extensive technical expertise in EHS, with site-level experience preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience leading senior-level EHS professionals.
• International experience and ability to travel globally as needed.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong team leadership experience involving cross-functional participants.
• Proven track record of establishing and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external clients, customers, regulators, and governmental officials.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully influence and negotiate with senior management.
• Experience managing budgets and other financial responsibilities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick).
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Eligibility to participate in long-term incentive programs.