The Global Head of Lab Systems & Automation is accountable for the strategy and global end-to-end lifecycle management of laboratory computerized systems, including robotics and automation solutions in Vaccines R&D. This role provides strong leadership, strategic direction, and focus to implement and maintain automated and/or computerized systems & applications in an ever-changing environment related to laboratory science innovation, regulatory requirements, and quality/EHS standards.
This position is pivotal in supporting the organization in generating high-quality structured data to drive R&D projects forward, emphasizing collaboration between Tech, Digital & Data, and Quality. The role requires business acumen, deep technical experience in laboratory instrumentation & automation, and process knowledge to drive innovative solutions for R&D Scientists.
The Global Head of Lab Systems & Automation will act as the Operational Technology (OT) Officer for Vaccines R&D, ensuring that OT risk is assessed, prioritized, and mitigated. This role will ensure compliance with OT security standards and controls in the labs.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership
- Guide the Lab Systems & Automation organization, partners, and customers to deliver innovative solutions for Scientists, promoting advancements in automation systems for process improvement and data generation.
- Lead country-based Lab Systems and Automation teams, ensuring effective lifecycle management support for lab systems and successful execution of operational and innovation projects.
- Drive employee engagement within the global Lab Systems & Automation team, focusing on development, recognition, and open communication.
- Ensure standards, policies, and procedures are fit-for-purpose (e.g., Computer System Validation, Data Integrity, OT design/cybersecurity risk assessments).
Stakeholder Management
- Collaborate with a range of stakeholders, including R&D scientific functions and Quality, to define and implement system solutions that optimize lab equipment and productivity.
- Define lab automation technology standards and identify process improvement opportunities.
- Apply agile methodology to deliver in a rapidly changing environment.
- Manage and coordinate external partners throughout the systems lifecycle.
- Liaise with other sites and organizations on benchmarks and best practices.
OT Officer Responsibilities
- Serve as Vaccines R&D representative at the R&D OT Operations Forum and Data Governance Risk Council.
- Conduct OT cybersecurity risk assessments and manage the risk compensation process, escalating issues as necessary.
Risk Mitigation:
- Contribute to the VxRD Digital and Data Strategy and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure appropriate risk controls are implemented.
- Review and approve Firewall rules, reference architecture, and strategies for local deployment.
- Address OT vulnerabilities and manage crisis responses.
Cybersecurity Technical Expertise and Business Analysis:
- Participate in the design and implementation of OT cybersecurity standards and tools.
- Collaborate on network segmentation design and maintain robust system inventory.
- Engage with business leaders and SMEs in cybersecurity decision-making.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related discipline.
- 7+ years of operational experience managing lab systems in validated and non-validated environments.
- 3+ years of line management experience leading large multi-site and global teams.
- Experience with stakeholder management and partnering with tech organizations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced degree (Masters, PhD, MBA) in a relevant field.
- Strategic thinking and integrity in action planning.
- Experience with agile methodologies and change management strategies.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.
This role offers the opportunity to lead key activities and progress your career in a dynamic environment.
