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Director, External Manufacturing

Company Description

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas – immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on XFacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Job Description

Purpose

Serve as the Lead – Established Brands, External Manufacturing, within AbbVie’s Operations Division.  Lead and build a team of Manufacturing Professionals assigned to Third Party Manufacture (TPM) contracts established brands products within the AbbVie portfolio of products. Assure that high quality product is manufactured in compliance with local and international regulations, and released and delivered according to the established forecasts, schedules, and cost planned.

Responsibilities

  • Lead a team of AbbVie External Manufacturing Managers to: Negotiate Manufacturing Service Agreement and amendments, and assure compliance with the terms of the agreements and Assure effective planning and material procurement strategies are in place to efficiently supply TPMs with required materials.
  • Assure global logistics are in place to support all phases of the manufacturing agreement in accordance with Purchasing and Supplier quality expectations.
  • Ensure timely communication to the TPM in all aspects of the product agreement including product forecasts, manufacturing and delivery schedules.
  • Lead the development of Financial Operating Plan, Updates, LRP, LBE and Standard processes, and assure the financial goals are met.
  • Monitor manufacturing performance; apply performance metrics as appropriate and ensure work processes and standards align to deliver product in accordance with AbbVie quality expectations.
  • Assure in coordination with internal AbbVie functional partners that the TPM has the required quality systems and documentation to meet regulatory requirements, follow up inspection responses and commitments. Coordinate with QA, the annual quality management review and periodic audits of the TPM. Assure deviations are properly investigated and product disposition decisions are made in a timely manner.
  • Lead a performance improvement culture & programs across TPMs; guide External Manufacturing Managers to anticipate and act on ideas to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Coach managers in the organization and establish clear expectations with them and all employees regarding responsibilities, goals and behaviours and champion and model exceptional AbbVie performance and talent management practices.
  • Coordinate routine management reviews and provide on-going communication informing internal and TPM stakeholders of TPM performance against expectations, highlighting issues, actions, and on-going improvements to increase performance at TPMs.
  • Represent Manufacturing as required with internal Brand Teams related to all aspects of the manufacturing process with TPMs and develop and manage staff through hiring, managing performance, developing talent and providing clear expectations.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree required in a technical field: advanced technical degree (Master’s or Doctorate Degree) strongly
    preferred.
  • 15+ years’ experience including: work as an individual contributor building technical expertise and proven project
    management skills.
  • Progressively increased responsibility and performance as supervisor, department manager and leader of diverse teams
    in Operations (Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, etc.)
  • Business acumen coupled with functional leadership experience is required to ensure effectiveness and high performance in a complex operation.

Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: ​

  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.​

  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.​

  • This job is eligible to participate in our short-term incentive programs. ​

  • This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs​

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company’s sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law. ​

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives, serving our community and embracing diversity and inclusion.  It is AbbVie’s policy to employ qualified persons of the greatest ability without discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected group status.

US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html 

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:

https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html

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Average salary estimate

$175000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
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$150000K
$200000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Director, External Manufacturing, AbbVie

Are you ready to take the reins as the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie in Waltham, MA? In this pivotal role, you will be at the forefront of driving our Third Party Manufacturing (TPM) efforts for established brand products. Your mission? To build and lead a talented team of Manufacturing Professionals who ensure that our high-quality products are produced in strict compliance with local and international regulations. You'll negotiate Manufacturing Service Agreements, oversee logistics, and work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that manufacturing and distribution align perfectly with our forecasts and cost plans. With your extensive experience—15+ years in operations and a strong foundation in technical expertise—you’ll set the strategic vision for the team while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Balancing business acumen and leadership skills, you will guide your team in implementing effective planning and material procurement strategies while monitoring performance metrics to uphold AbbVie’s quality standards. We’re looking for someone who can communicate effectively and coach managers to foster an environment that champions excellence. If you’re passionate about making a significant impact in the pharmaceutical industry while nurturing talent and ensuring top-tier product delivery, then AbbVie is the place for you. Join us and help address serious health issues and improve the lives of people worldwide!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Director, External Manufacturing Role at AbbVie
What responsibilities does the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie have?

The Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie plays a critical leadership role, responsible for overseeing Third Party Manufacturing contracts, ensuring compliance with local and international regulations, negotiating agreements, and leading a team of Manufacturing Professionals. You'll also be tasked with developing financial operating plans and monitoring manufacturing performance, applying metrics to improve efficiency and effectiveness in production.

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What qualifications are needed to become the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie?

To qualify for the Director of External Manufacturing position at AbbVie, candidates should possess a Bachelor's Degree in a technical field, with advanced degrees being highly preferred. A minimum of 15 years of experience in operations, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain management is essential, coupled with proven leadership skills and business acumen to navigate complex operations effectively.

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How does the Director of External Manufacturing contribute to product quality at AbbVie?

The Director of External Manufacturing is instrumental in ensuring product quality at AbbVie by monitoring compliance with stringent quality standards, conducting audits, and collaborating with internal functional partners. This position also involves ensuring that TPMs have the necessary quality systems in place and managing deviations and corrective actions promptly to maintain high-quality production.

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What is the importance of communication in the role of the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie?

Effective communication is vital for the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie, as it facilitates timely updates and coordination among internal teams and third-party manufacturers. This ensures all stakeholders are aligned on product forecasts, manufacturing schedules, and quality expectations, ultimately enhancing collaboration and operational success.

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What leadership qualities are essential for the Director of External Manufacturing at AbbVie?

The ideal candidate for the Director of External Manufacturing role at AbbVie should exemplify strong leadership qualities, including the ability to inspire and develop teams, champion exceptional performance, and implement a culture of continuous improvement. A knack for strategic planning and the capability to guide diverse teams through complex operations are equally important.

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Common Interview Questions for Director, External Manufacturing
How do you ensure compliance with manufacturing regulations?

To ensure compliance with manufacturing regulations, I focus on developing strong quality management systems and working closely with Quality Assurance to conduct regular audits. I also emphasize the importance of continuous training for all team members and staying updated with changing regulations to preemptively address potential compliance issues.

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Can you describe your experience with negotiating manufacturing service agreements?

In my previous roles, I've successfully negotiated multiple manufacturing service agreements by ensuring that terms are aligned with our operational goals while protecting the company's interests. I prioritize clarity in communication and strive for mutually beneficial terms to foster strong partnerships with our third-party manufacturers.

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What strategies do you use to improve manufacturing efficiency?

I approach manufacturing efficiency improvement through data-driven analysis of performance metrics. By identifying bottlenecks and implementing lean manufacturing principles, I've successfully streamlined operations, reduced waste, and elevated overall productivity. Open communication with teams also plays a crucial role in encouraging innovative ideas.

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How do you manage conflicts within a manufacturing team?

I believe in addressing conflicts promptly and effectively by creating an open environment where team members feel safe voicing concerns. I use active listening to understand different perspectives and work collaboratively to find solutions that align with our goals while promoting teamwork and respect.

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What role does financial management play in your job?

Financial management is critical in my role as it involves developing and monitoring budgets, maximizing resource utilization, and ensuring that operations remain within budgetary constraints. I regularly analyze financial data to inform strategic planning and make necessary adjustments to meet our goals.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe your approach to team leadership.

My approach to team leadership involves fostering an inclusive and empowering environment where every team member has the opportunity to contribute and grow. I set clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and champion professional development initiatives to equip my team with the skills needed to excel in their roles.

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How do you align manufacturing plans with overall business strategy?

To align manufacturing plans with overall business strategy, I work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that production goals reflect market demands and corporate objectives. Regular communication and strategic planning sessions help us remain agile and responsive to changing business conditions.

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Can you give an example of a major challenge you've faced in manufacturing and how you overcame it?

One significant challenge I faced was during a transition to a new manufacturing partner, which caused delays in production. By implementing a thorough transition plan and maintaining open lines of communication, I facilitated problem resolution and kept the project on track, ultimately fulfilling all deliverables on time.

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What metrics do you prioritize when assessing manufacturing performance?

When assessing manufacturing performance, I prioritize metrics such as production yield, cycle time, compliance rates, and cost per unit. These metrics provide a comprehensive view of operational efficiency and enable data-driven decision-making for continuous improvement efforts.

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How do you approach talent development within your team?

I approach talent development by identifying individual strengths and areas for growth within my team. I encourage mentorship, provide opportunities for professional development, and support career advancement initiatives, ensuring that team members are equipped to excel in their roles and contribute to organizational goals.

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AbbVie’s mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people’s lives across several key therapeutic areas: i...

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 20, 2025

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