Director, Project Management Office (PMO)
$155,000–$220,000 year
On-siteSyracuse, New York, United States
Job Summary
Lead the PMO function for the Syracuse Bio Campus, establishing governance standards, operating mechanisms, and performance metrics to ensure portfolio visibility and delivery excellence. Translate site and business objectives into execution frameworks while partnering with the VP, Global PMO to align strategies and drive continuous improvement. Provide oversight for client projects and internal initiatives, managing risk, resource allocation, and financial oversight across Manufacturing, Development, Quality, and Supply Chain. Serve as a strategic liaison for client stakeholders, leading Joint Steering Committee meetings and supporting new business opportunities. Lead and develop a team of project managers, fostering a high-performing culture grounded in collaboration and client focus. This role requires 12+ years of experience in biopharma/CDMO operations and is based onsite at the Syracuse Bio Campus in East Syracuse, NY.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Business, or a related field
- 12+ years of relevant experience
- Significant experience in the biopharma and/or CDMO industry
- Significant leadership experience in project management, program/alliance management, PMO leadership, and/or related operational leadership roles supporting complex biologics programs
- Demonstrated success leading complex cGMP manufacturing, technical transfer, and/or end-to-end client programs within a contract development and manufacturing environment
- Proven experience establishing, leading, or enhancing PMO governance frameworks, portfolio management processes, and performance reporting mechanisms
- Experience leading direct reports and developing talent within a matrixed, cross-functional organization
- Demonstrated success influencing senior leaders, clients, and cross-functional stakeholders to drive decisions, alignment, and business outcomes
- Strong experience managing client relationships, governance forums, and complex project communications at a strategic level
- Deep knowledge of project and portfolio management methodologies, risk management practices, and governance models within a biopharmaceutical or CDMO environment
- Strong understanding of biologics manufacturing, process and analytical technical transfer, cGMP operations, and regulatory requirements in GxP settings
- Strong business and financial acumen, including understanding of project forecasting, cost management, invoicing processes, change impact assessment, and client financial visibility
- Ability to translate business strategy and operational priorities into PMO governance, execution plans, and measurable outcomes
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior leaders, clients, and cross-functional stakeholders across a matrixed organization
- Strong people leadership skills, including coaching, performance management, organizational development, and capability building
- Ability to lead through ambiguity, manage competing priorities, and drive resolution of complex operational and portfolio issues
- Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills, including executive-level communication
- Proficiency with Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Power BI, and other project and portfolio management tools
- Ability to balance strategic leadership with appropriate operational involvement to support execution and business outcomes
- Onsite role based at the Syracuse Bio Campus (cGMP manufacturing facility), requiring regular presence and engagement with cross-functional teams
- Frequent interaction with internal departments (Manufacturing, Development, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, Business Development) and external clients
- Occasional entry into GMP manufacturing and laboratory spaces, which requires adherence to gowning and safety procedures
- Occasional lifting or carrying of materials (up to 15 lbs.), such as binders, laptops, or presentation materials
- Up to 10–15% travel for client meetings, global PMO forums, training, client site visits or cross-site/corporate meeting collaboration
- May involve extended hours or flexibility during critical project phases, client audits, or leadership meetings
Desired Qualifications
- Advanced degree
- PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent certification
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