Director, R&D Portfolio Program Management

Objective

The Director is a key member of the R&D Global Portfolio and Project Management (GPPM) team, responsible for leading and developing a team of R&D project managers and coordinators. This role focuses on overseeing a portfolio of R&D development projects within a designated Bausch + Lomb business vertical (e.g., Vision Care, Surgical, or Pharmaceuticals/Consumer).

As the leader for the assigned business area, the Director facilitates and manages the New Product Development (NPD) governance board. They ensure the consistent and effective execution of projects and programs by applying standardized project management methodologies and industry best practices across all phases of development and lifecycle management. Additionally, the Director will serve on the Project Management Leadership Team (PMLT), contributing to cross-business unit initiatives aimed at enhancing processes and policies.

The Director is accountable for ensuring that all projects and programs within their portfolio are supported by a comprehensive global project strategy. This includes translating customer needs into product requirements, developing project valuations, planning for global registration and launch, and defining project scope, budget, resources, timelines, risk management strategies, and communication plans.

Beyond project oversight, the Director also plays a critical role in mentoring GPPM staff and may lead strategic initiatives or special projects across the broader R&D organization.

• Lead and manage a team of project managers to ensure successful execution of projects and programs.
• Provide coaching, mentorship, and career development opportunities for GPPM staff.
• Collaborate with HR to attract, retain, and grow high-performing talent.
• Cultivate a high-performance, inclusive culture focused on continuous improvement.
• Manage the performance, succession planning, and annual compensation process for their assigned team. Address performance challenges constructively and proactively.

• Contribute to the GPPM vision as a member of the Project Management Leadership Team (PMLT).
• Ensure program alignment with strategic objectives through effective governance, tools, and standards.
• Apply product development expertise, portfolio insights, and financial acumen to guide investment strategy and optimization.
• Facilitate the NPD Governance Board to oversee project strategy and execution.

• Lead cross-functional teams to develop and execute global product development strategies, including:
• Project scope and timelines
• Target Product Profile (TPP) and value drivers
• Financial modeling and risk analysis
• Regulatory strategy and launch planning
• Intellectual property (IP) strategy and functional execution
• May serve as Program Team Leader (PTL) or lead key initiatives across GPPM, R&D, or the broader organization.
• Navigate complexity and uncertainty using critical analysis and scenario planning.

• Develop and maintain resource plans; resolve conflicts to maintain project schedule commitments.
• Guide teams in proactive risk identification, mitigation, and contingency planning.
• Communicate project interdependencies, risks, and issues clearly and effectively.

• Partner with Commercial, Operations, and R&D to ensure full support for overall portfolio.
• Act as a central communication hub for project plans, status updates, and escalations.
• Maintain accurate data in GPPM systems and deliver timely reports to support decision-making.

• Facilitate Business Gate Reviews to ensure alignment and approval of project progression.
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, GMPs, design control, EHS standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Promote the use of lessons learned and best practices across teams.

• Manage portfolio budgets, prioritize initiatives for maximum value, and ensure financial discipline.
• Support business development activities, including due diligence and strategic partnerships.
• Champion innovative practices in program and portfolio management to enhance execution and accelerate time to market.

BS/BA in Science or Engineering, advanced degree in science, engineering or business preferred.

10+ years of Medical Device/Pharma industry experience and 10+ years of experience in R&D…