Project Manager, Operations Strategy
QuidelOrtho · Athens, OH · 3 wk ago
Information TechnologyFull-time
The Role
The Project Manager, Operations Strategy is responsible for leading the execution of complex, cross-functional projects aligned to strategic operations priorities and program objectives. This role operates within larger programs and works closely with Program Managers and senior leadership to deliver initiatives that support footprint optimization, product transfers, cost and margin improvement, automation, and capacity expansion.
Responsibilities
- Project & Program Execution Lead - end-to-end execution of complex, cross-functional projects within one or more strategic programs, ensuring delivery against defined scope, timeline, and objectives
- Translate program-level goals into detailed project plans, milestones, and deliverables
- Drive coordination across engineering, operations, quality, regulatory, supply chain, and commercial teams to ensure alignment and execution
- Manage multiple concurrent projects with varying scope and complexity, balancing priorities and resource constraints
- Identify, assess, and resolve complex project risks, issues, and interdependencies across multiple functions
- Lead structured problem-solving efforts, including data gathering, trade-off analysis, and scenario evaluation
- Navigate ambiguity by defining clear paths forward in situations where information may be incomplete or evolving
- Escalate critical risks and decisions appropriately while recommending data-driven solutions
- Provide technical leadership across projects, ensuring sound engineering and scientific judgment in decision-making
- Lead initiatives involving design transfer, engineering changes, process improvements, and manufacturing optimization
- Guide teams through technical trade-offs, balancing quality, regulatory, operational, and business requirements
- Ensure all project deliverables meet applicable quality standards and regulatory expectations
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders across and outside the immediate function, including senior leadership, to ensure transparency and alignment
- Influence program-level decisions through strong analysis, clear recommendations, and cross-functional collaboration
- Build alignment across teams by clarifying priorities, resolving conflicts, and driving accountability
- Support communication with external partners and suppliers as needed
- Support planning and operational alignment by providing project-level inputs on scope, timing, risks, and resource needs
- Monitor and report on project progress, risks, and performance through established governance and reporting mechanisms
- Contribute to improving project management practices, tools, and processes to enhance execution efficiency and consistency
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or scientific discipline (Mechanical, Chemical, Manufacturing Engineering; Chemistry; Microbiology; Biochemistry; etc.)
- 7 years of progressive experience in technical programs, projects, or management within regulated industries (medical device experience preferred)
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross-functional initiatives with multiple stakeholders and dependencies
- Strong problem-solving skills with experience navigating ambiguous and technically complex situations
- Prominent ability to influence decisions and drive alignment without direct authority
- Experience supporting capital projects, facility upgrades, or manufacturing scale-up initiatives
- Experience supporting engineering changes, design transfer, new product introduction, or process improvement initiatives
- Financial acumen, including experience managing project budgets and supporting business case development
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences
- Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Smartsheet, MS Project) and Microsoft Office Suite
Qualifications
- This position is not currently eligible for visa sponsorship
- Preferred: Advanced degree (MS, PhD, MBA, or equivalent)
- Familiarity with medical device regulatory requirements and design control processes
- Experience working across global or multi-site organizations