Operations Lead Vaccines

Sanofi is a global biopharmaceutical company renowned for its research and development-driven approach, committed to innovation in medicines and vaccines. Operating at the cutting edge of science, Sanofi leverages artificial intelligence and extensive experience in immunology to develop treatments that protect and improve lives worldwide. With a mission grounded in delivering high-quality healthcare solutions, Sanofi is dedicated to continuous growth, technological advancement, and contributing to global health by combating infectious diseases and chronic conditions alike. The company has a worldwide network of teams and manufacturing sites, fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity, development, and employee wellbeing. Sanofi's commitment to a sustainable future and scientific excellence makes it a leading biopharma entity recognized across the globe.

The Operations Lead for Vaccines at Sanofi is a critical leadership role based in Cambridge, MA, within the EM&S Vaccines Operations department. This operational unit is responsible for ensuring the on-time and in-full delivery of vaccine products from Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs) and external partners. The Operations Lead's role involves managing the entire contract execution process, ensuring compliance and seamless collaboration with CMOs, external partners, and internal teams such as Quality, Supply, Procurement, Finance, and Regulatory Affairs. The position demands strong project management capabilities and the ability to lead cross-functional teams through technical transfers, new product introductions, and continuous improvement initiatives in vaccine manufacturing operations.

The Operations Lead acts as the primary Sanofi interface with manufacturing sites, effectively serving as a virtual plant manager by overseeing production, supplying critical updates, and managing risks related to quality or product supply. This role includes overseeing planning consistency, contract compliance, and production capacity alignment with contract obligations, while ensuring the smooth flow of materials and products. The candidate will also coordinate all related industrial flows between partners and Sanofi sites, manage purchase orders in ERP systems, and escalate risks and issues when necessary to senior management. Participation in audits, quality investigations, and compliance initiatives is also a key responsibility.

This position requires strategic thinking, outstanding communication skills, and profound knowledge of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and regulations. The Operations Lead will routinely collaborate with various internal functional units and external partners to drive operational excellence and timely product delivery. The role supports Sanofi's mission to deliver billions of healthcare solutions annually by protecting people from infectious diseases and advancing medical innovation. Opportunities for professional growth, international travel (up to 20%), and involvement in high-impact projects make this a prestigious and challenging role for operations professionals with extensive industry experience.