Global Automation Lead

The Global Automation Lead role at Siegfried is a strategic leadership position focused on defining, executing, and governing the corporate automation blueprint across their global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) network. Siegfried is a trusted partner in the pharmaceutical industry, known for its high standards in safety, quality, and sustainability. The company offers a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are valued, fostering both collective success and individual contributions. The main day-to-day responsibilities of the Global Automation Lead include designing and driving the global automation roadmap, integrating advanced technologies such as electronic batch records (EBR), plug-and-produce modular systems, AI-driven process optimization, and industrial IoT (IIoT). Additionally, the role involves creating a standardized, recipe-driven automation architecture that facilitates seamless tech transfers for client products. The lead will also audit and map the lifecycle state of all global process control systems, developing a long-term capital replacement roadmap to upgrade obsolete hardware and software. Collaboration with the Head of Global Project Delivery and site project teams during the front-end design phase of new expansions is crucial to ensure alignment with corporate global automation standards. The role also includes leading the network of local Site Automation Heads, setting unified performance standards, and developing global training paths for automation engineers. To qualify for this role, candidates must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Chemical Engineering with a focus on software/control. A minimum of 12–15 years of automation leadership experience within a regulated biopharmaceutical, vaccine, or high-complexity CDMO environment is required. Experience managing automated systems across an international network, including large-scale DCS/MES deployment or migration programs, is essential. A deep understanding of life sciences data, including computerized system validation (CSV), GAMP 5 principles, 21 CFR Part 11, and Data Integrity regulations, is also necessary. Strong strategic collaborative leadership skills, with the ability to communicate complex software and digital architectures to non-technical stakeholders, are crucial. Nice-to-have skills include experience with OT cyber security frameworks to protect manufacturing networks. The role is based in a dynamic and international environment, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. The company values excellence, quality, and continuous learning, providing a collaborative and passionate team environment. The role is part of a renewed organization with room for long-term, sustainable impact. What the role asks for: - Bachelor's or Master's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Chemical Engineering with a heavy software/control focus. - 12–15 years of automation leadership experience within a regulated biopharmaceutical, vaccine, or high-complexity CDMO environment. - Experience managing automated systems across an international network, including direct experience driving large-scale DCS/MES deployment or migration programs. - Deep knowledge of Life Sciences Data, including computerized system validation (CSV), GAMP 5 principles, 21 CFR Part 11, and Data Integrity regulations. - Strategic collaborative leadership skills to communicate complex software and digital architectures to non-technical stakeholders.