Project Manager, Operations Strategy

The Role

Project Manager, Operations Strategy
, responsible for leading the execution of complex, cross‑functional projects aligned to strategic operations priorities and program objectives. The role operates within larger programs, collaborating with Program Managers and senior leadership to deliver initiatives that support footprint optimization, product transfers, cost and margin improvement, automation, and capacity expansion. This position requires a strong combination of engineering expertise, business acumen, and program execution discipline.

It is onsite in Athens, OH.

• Project & Program Execution
  :
  Lead end‑to‑end execution of complex cross‑functional projects, translate program goals into detailed project plans, drive coordination across engineering, operations, quality, regulatory, supply chain, and commercial teams, manage multiple concurrent projects, and ensure delivery against defined scope, timeline, and objectives.
• Problem Solving & Complexity Management
  :
  Identify, assess, and resolve complex project risks and issues, lead structured problem‑solving efforts, navigate ambiguity, define clear paths forward, recommend data‑driven solutions, and appropriately escalated critical risks.
• Technical Leadership
  :
  Provide technical leadership across projects, lead initiatives involving design transfer, engineering changes, process improvements, and manufacturing optimization, guide teams through technical trade‑offs, and ensure all deliverables meet applicable quality standards and regulatory expectations.
• Stakeholder Communication & Influence
  :
  Communicate effectively with stakeholders and senior leadership, influence program‑level decisions through strong analysis and recommendations, build alignment across teams, resolve conflicts, drive accountability, and support external partner communication when needed.
• Planning & Operational Alignment
  :
  Support program and annual planning processes with project‑level inputs on scope, timing, risks, and resource needs, monitor and report on progress, risks, and performance through established governance mechanisms, and contribute to improving project management practices, tools, and processes.

• 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 preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex, cross‑functional initiatives with multiple stakeholders and dependencies.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and experience navigating ambiguous, technically complex situations.
• Proven 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.

• 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.

• Internal Partners
  :
  Operations, Supply Chain, R&D, Regulatory, Business Unit.
• External Partners
  :
  Suppliers and other external partners supporting project execution.

The work environment is representative of manufacturing, laboratory, or warehouse settings and includes handling of viral and bacterial hazards, potentially hazardous chemicals, as well as infectious or potentially infectious bodily fluids, tissues, and samples.

Up to 75% of the time the employee will be standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods. The employee must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. Flexible work hours may be required to meet…