Associate Director, Supply Chain Excellence Lead

Join Alexion, AstraZeneca's rare disease business unit, where we are dedicated to developing and delivering life-transforming therapies for patients with devastating and rare diseases. Our mission is to provide medical breakthroughs where none currently exist, offering hope to patients and their families. As part of the Global Supply Chain and Strategy team, the Supply Chain Excellence Lead will play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency, resilience, and scalability within our supply chain. This position involves leading cross-functional projects, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and using technology to optimize supply chain processes.

Accountabilities

• Project Management: Lead projects aimed at improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the supply chain.
• Process Improvement: Analyze current supply chain processes and identify areas for improvement. Develop plans and implement improvements with clear metrics for measuring success.
• Supply Chain Design: Develop robust supply chain frameworks that align with business goals. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design processes that support product availability, quality, and competitiveness.
• Data Analysis: Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and implementation of cash-efficient, sustainable, and scalable supply chains.
• Innovation and Strategy: Stay updated with industry trends and emerging technologies. Implement strategic initiatives that drive innovation and competitive advantage in supply chain processes.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, logistics providers, and other business units such as tax and finance, to ensure alignment and support for supply chain initiatives.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies to ensure smooth operations.
• Technology: Identify and implement technology solutions to enhance supply chain design and operations. Collaborate with IT and other departments to enhance digitalization.

Essential Skills/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, scientific discipline, business administration, or a related field. A master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of ten years’ experience in a supply chain/partner relationship role 
• Thorough knowledge of the pharma industry and manufacturing 
• Intercultural experience and ability to act in a complex and rapidly changing business environment
• Extensive experience in supply chain design and management, with a consistent record of successful project delivery.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools and methods.
• Excellent leadership and project management skills, with experience handling cross-functional teams.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all organizational levels.
• Knowledge of supply chain technologies and ERP systems.
• Experience with advanced supply chain modeling and simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of Financial & Tax landscape desirable 
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process optimization methodologies.
• Professional certification in supply chain management (e.g., APICS CSCP or CLTD) is desirable.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business or scientific discipline required. Advanced degree a plus.
• 10+ yrs. equivalent multi / cross functional experience

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca, you will find an environment that fosters innovation and growth. We are committed to protecting our patients, our people, and our planet while supporting you in defining the career you want to build. Our entrepreneurial spirit encourages you to take ownership, develop new skills, and expand your capabilities.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.