Operational Readiness Project Manager

The Operational Readiness Project Manager (ORPM) serves as a strategic leader bridging the gap between mechanical completion and sustained operational performance. The ORPM designs and leads holistic Operational Readiness programs using CAI’s six-pillar Readiness Framework. This role ensures project teams achieve right-first-time metrics, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and deliver world-class performance from day one.

1. Project & Program Leadership - Lead project teams to achieve Operational Readiness (OR) objectives. - Manage readiness-to-operations lifecycle for 1–3 client engagements simultaneously. - Drive on-time, on-scope delivery of readiness programs. 2. Pillar Integration & Execution - Serve as the primary consultant for OR campaigns integrating with Quality, Process, and Workforce streams. - Apply OE principles to pre-Day One activities (e.g., visual management, accountability, problem-solving). 3. Client Advisory - Act as a trusted advisor to executive stakeholders (VPs, Site Heads, etc.). - Guide decision-making with a risk-based, speed-to-value mindset. 4. People Development - Lead and coach cross-functional teams including CQV, Quality, and external contractors. - Cultivate a culture of feedback and growth. 5. Thought Leadership -Contribute to CAI's brand via white papers, conference presentations, and client tools. Skills & Characteristics Required: - Consulting & Facilitation - Align project stakeholders with clear vision and measurable goals. - Expert-level guidance for site and department leadership. - Project Execution - Manage scheduling, resource loading, controls, and closeout. - Execute comprehensive project planning and delivery. - Continuous Improvement - Drive site-wide transformation using Lean, Six Sigma, or TPM methodologies. Qualifications and Experience: - BS or MS in a relevant science or engineering field (or equivalent). - 3+ years as a program/project manager on life science projects ($1MM+), or - 8+ years in GMP-regulated operations with 5+ years leading readiness/start-up/OE transformations. (Black Belt or equivalent preferred.) - Proven multi-site or multi-client portfolio experience. - Deep understanding of quality systems, tech transfer, equipment qualification, and analytics. - Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills. - Proficient in project management software tools. Other Requirements: - Excellent written and verbal English communication. - Able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future. - Domestic and international travel may be required. - Willing to work overtime when necessary. - PMI PMP or PgMP certification a plus. Critical Competencies Influence Strategy - Evaluates and pursues initiatives, opportunities, and priorities based on fit with organization strategies. - Identifies innovative solutions to challenges that have strategic impact, balancing both short- and long-term concerns. - Identifies issues related to emerging customer and market needs. Satisfy the Customer - Identifies and anticipates customer requirements, expectations, and needs. - Develops solutions that meet or exceed customer expectations and shares feedback with relevant groups. - Consistently follows up with customers to resolve issues and maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty. - Continually searches for ways to improve customer service, including removal of barriers and providing solutions. Plan for Success - Translates business/function strategies into aligned plans and objectives and integrates across business groups. - Obtains and allocates resources needed to accomplish goals. - Anticipates risk and builds effective contingency plans. Pursue Execution - Prioritizes and balances time, actions, resources, and initiatives to ensure achievement of critical goals. - Holds self and others accountable for achieving outcomes. - Anticipates obstacles and takes appropriate actions to accelerate work or improve quality. Tailor Communication - Communicates information clearly, concisely, and professionally. - Tailors communication style and content to audience effectively. - Writes technical concepts clearly and thoroughly for all audience types. Build Partnerships - Cultivates a network of people across a variety of disciplines and functions within the organization. - Builds collaboration by identifying and conveying common interests and priorities, removing barriers, and breaking down silos. - Appropriately involves others in decisions and plans that affect them. - Maintains positive relationships regardless of challenges, organizational level, personality, or background differences. Influence Others - Develops and articulates compelling rationale for positions. - Builds a broad base of support among key decision makers and influencers. - Positions and explains ideas and proposals in ways that get support from others. ·  Encourages others to find new solutions that improve outcomes and deliver value. Develop Self and Others - Continuously develops interpersonal skills to build effective internal and external relationships. ·  Models company values and always acts with integrity. ·  Looks for opportunities to develop breakthrough ideas and initiatives. APPLY FOR THIS JOB ALL OPEN POSITIONS