Associate Director Digital Project Manager

Job Description

Technology is transforming the way we manufacture.  Drive the implementation of innovative digital and automation solutions that enable smarter, more connected and more efficient manufacturing operations across Europe. Join our team as an:

 

Associate Director Digital Project Manager

 

Welcome to the team

The Digital Manufacturing Team partners closely with colleagues across the business to support our mission of delivering innovative medicines and vaccines to patients and customers around the world. We are a dynamic, forward-thinking team that leverages digital technologies and data-driven solutions to accelerate manufacturing excellence, enhance productivity, and enable business growth.

Working at the intersection of manufacturing, engineering, and technology, we collaborate with stakeholders across the organization to drive digital transformation and support the future of our global manufacturing network.

 

About the role

As an Associate Director Digital Project Manager, you will lead the end-to-end digital scope for major manufacturing capital investment projects across Continental Europe, initially supporting our Animal Health site in Boxmeer, with opportunities to contribute to future projects across the broader portfolio.

Acting as a key interface between business stakeholders, Global Engineering Solutions, Digital Manufacturing teams and external partners, you will ensure the successful delivery of technology solutions that enable new and expanded manufacturing facilities. You will be responsible for defining and overseeing the implementation of manufacturing and shop floor technologies, ensuring they are fit for purpose, scalable, compliant and aligned with business objectives.

To succeed in this role, you will bring strong project management expertise, a solid understanding of manufacturing systems and the ability to build and lead cross-functional teams. Through your leadership, you will help accelerate digital transformation and support the continued growth of our manufacturing network while maintaining high standards of quality and operational excellence.

 

 Tasks and responsibilities include but are not limited to

• Lead the digital, IT and automation scope for major capital projects, with responsibility for scope, budget and delivery.
• Build and lead high-performing teams of internal experts and external partners.
• Drive project execution through Digital Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and strategic vendors.
• Ensure alignment with technology standards and continuously improve delivery processes.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders and deliver results in fast-paced environments.
• Manage complex project portfolios, balancing priorities, risks and resources.
• Champion digital innovation and support the growth of our manufacturing network.

 

Your profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Extensive experience delivering automation and digital solutions within large-scale capital projects.
• Proven experience with system implementation, configuration and solution delivery, supported by a strong understanding of system architecture.
• Experience managing system lifecycle activities, from deployment through ongoing support and enhancement.
• Solid experience working within pharmaceutical, biotechnology or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of validation processes and the system lifecycle within a GMP environment.
• Good knowledge of IT infrastructure, including networking, server technologies, virtualization and storage solutions.
• Experience with manufacturing platforms such as DeltaV, PI, and PAS-X is highly desirable.

 

What we offer

The opportunity to step into a new, hands‑on position where you’ll work independently, collaborate across functions and take on real leadership responsibilities. Our benefits are very competitive, and the summary below will give you an idea of what you can expect.

• Competitive salary based on your knowledge and experience.
• 3% year-end payment and an annual bonus based on personal and company performance.
• At least 35.5 days of paid leave.
• Travel allowance and a solid pension scheme.
• A workplace within an organization that is continuously growing and evolving.
• Extensive development opportunities thanks to the size of the site and the presence of many disciplines and global departments represented in Boxmeer.
• A high-quality company restaurant offering fresh and healthy options daily.
• Excellent accessibility: the train station is located directly at our main entrance and there is ample parking available.
• A contribution toward your personal sports membership to support your vitality.
• A beautiful private park on the premises, ideal for a walk, break, or moment of relaxation.
• Mental well-being support through Lyra Health for you and your family members.
• Access to a dedicated prayer and meditation room.

 

Animal Health

Our Animal Health Division is a trusted global leader in veterinary medicine, dedicated to preserving and improving health, well-being, and performance of animals and the people who care for them. We are a global team of professionals working together to make a positive difference in animal care and the world’s food supply and have a deep sense of responsibility towards our customers, consumers, animals, society, and our planet.

Through our commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals®, we offer veterinarians, farmers, pet owners and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services as well as an extensive suite of digitally connected identification, traceability and monitoring products. We invest in dynamic and comprehensive R&D resources and a modern, global supply chain. We are present in more than 50 countries, while our products are available in some 150 markets.

 

For questions about this vacancy

Please send an email including the vacancy number and job title to the following email address: [email protected]. Applications can only be submitted through our career site.

Required Skills:

Digital Technology, Manufacturing, Pharmaceutical Industry, Project Management, Shop Floor Management, Technical Project Management

Preferred Skills:

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Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

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Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company.  No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails. 

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Job Posting End Date:

10/30/2026

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