Associate Director, Operational Excellence

About Apotex Inc.

Apotex is a Canadian-based global health company. We improve everyday access to affordable, innovative medicines and health products for millions of people worldwide, with a broad portfolio of generic, biosimilar, innovative branded pharmaceuticals and consumer health products. Headquartered in Toronto, with regional offices globally, including in the United States, Mexico and India, we are the largest Canadian-based pharmaceutical company and a health partner of choice for the Americas for pharmaceutical licensing and product acquisitions.

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Responsible for driving change by championing, enabling and supporting the identification and quantification of continuous improvement opportunities where LEAN, Six Sigma, and other toolscan be applied to successfully transform organizational culture and deliver business results.  Drive waste reduction and systematically increase productivity both Site wide and cross-functionally as an advocate for the external customer.  Actively participate as a member of the Site Leadership Team. 

• In collaboration with the Site Leadership Team, Head Office, the Director, Global Manufacturing Excellence, key customers, suppliers, and employees, drive change by championing the identification, prioritization, selection, execution and evaluation of complex LEAN/Continuous Improvement projects designed to deliver significant business results, delight customers, transform culture and achieve Apotex core strategic plan objectives.
• Manage, mentor, coach, support and lead a Team of Operational Excellence Project Leaders in the application of LEAN/Continuous Improvement methodologies and proactive management of LEAN/Continuous Improvement projects.
• Drive waste reduction and systematically increase productivity both at the Site and through cross-functional LEAN/Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Develop relationships with key stakeholders in all areas of the business (including Corporate/Head Office functions) to become a trusted advisor and strategic partner in the identification and execution of LEAN/Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Work with other Site Operational Excellence leaders and Leadership across the business to effectively communicate and drive change to support the development of and the transformation to a LEAN culture.
• In collaboration with other Site Operational Excellence Leaders and the Director, Global Manufacturing Excellence, manage the development and delivery of LEAN methodology training for LEAN Project Leaders and LEAN project participants to expand knowledge, understanding and capability and to involve, align, educate and empower employees throughout the Site(s).
• In collaboration with other Site Operational Excellence Leaders and Director, Global Manufacturing Excellence, manage the development and execution of the appropriate level of training and certification for all LEAN/Continuous Improvement resources as well as other resources across the organization as appropriate.
• Lead the identification and selection of new Operational Excellence Project Leaders from across the Site.
• Remain current with changes and advancements in LEAN/ Continuous Improvement methodologies and recommend their introduction where appropriate to the Apotex environment.
• Participate and lead performance conversations with employees, including monthly one on ones, to connect on performance; check in on employee's progress toward achieving Objectives, offer support and remove barriers; and, communicate and revisit performance expectations to reinforce and encourage high performance culture and a safe working environment for all employees.
• Utilize open, honest, two-way communication to build trust-based relationships with employees, business partners and direct leader while continuously improving leadership capabilities by personally seeking feedback and development.
• Create a culture which values trust and provides the opportunity for Employee development and growth in pursuit of our purpose and demonstrating our core Values – Collaboration, Courage, Perseverance and Passion.
• Utilize your networks to attract and hire talent in a comprehensive, differentiated and consistent manner essential to our continued growth; then, onboard new employees by providing a consistent experience that reflects the values and commitments made to candidates during the hiring process.
• Ensure adherence of team members (direct reports) with all compliance programs and company policies and procedures.
• All other duties as assigned

• Education
  • Post-secondary degree in Engineering, Sciences, and/or other relevant degree and significant project management and operations experience in a manufacturing/packaging environment.
  • LEAN Black Belt/ LEAN Six Sigma Black Belt qualification a definite asset and/or training and qualification in other Continuous Improvement methodologies.
  • Completion of Apotex Trainer Qualification Program
• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Strong presentation skills to facilitate communication of LEAN/Continuous Improvement initiatives in various forums - large employee meetings and briefings with senior leadership
  • Proven strong organizational, time management, and project management skills. Demonstrated experience in managing project activities
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills - excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal
  • Ability to be a self-starter, work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced and changing environment
  • Working knowledge of GMP
  • Proficiency with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project Management.
• Experience
  • Ten to fifteen years of progressive business experience, demonstrating leadership by achieving outcomes through others, developing and maintaining positive working relationships, clarifying expectations, seeking understanding, and taking ownership and accountability for own performance.
  • Experience with leading and facilitating team events
  • Eight to ten years experience successfully leading multiple LEAN/Continuous Improvement projects and demonstrating expert knowledge of DMAIC, Value Stream assessment, application of Kaizen and other key LEAN/Continuous Improvement methodologies.

At Apotex, we are committed to fostering a welcoming and accessible work environment, where all everyone feels valued, respected, and supported to succeed.

We offer accommodation for applicants with disabilities as part of its recruitment process. If you are contacted to arrange for an interview or testing, please advise us if you require an accommodation.