Program Manager (Life Sciences) | India req.

We are looking for a seasoned Program Manager with over 12 years of experience in the Life Sciences or Pharmaceutical industry to lead large-scale technology and business transformation initiatives. The successful candidate will have a strong background in managing multiple complex projects simultaneously, leading cross-functional teams, and coordinating efforts between business and IT stakeholders. Experience in regulated Life Sciences environments is essential to ensure compliance and successful program delivery within scope, budget, and timelines.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and oversee complex, multi-project programs within the Life Sciences or Pharmaceutical sectors.
- Own all aspects of program planning, execution, governance, budgeting, resource allocation, and delivery outcomes.
- Manage program roadmaps, milestones, dependencies, risks, issues, and develop mitigation strategies.
- Coordinate cross-functional teams spanning IT, business, quality, regulatory, operations, and external vendors.
- Maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders and provide regular updates to executive leadership.
- Drive initiatives related to digital transformation, application modernization, cloud migration, data management, and enterprise technology.
- Establish program governance structures, including steering committee meetings, status reporting, and KPI tracking.
- Ensure alignment with business objectives, regulatory requirements, quality standards, and organizational policies.
- Identify and manage delivery risks, resolve escalations, and facilitate timely decision-making across teams.
- Oversee vendor performance, contracts, budgets, and resource planning.
- Lead change management, communication, and adoption activities throughout the program lifecycle.
- Ensure compliance with applicable Life Sciences regulations such as GxP, FDA standards, and Computer System Validation (CSV) where relevant.

Required Qualifications

- Minimum of 12 years’ experience in IT program and project management.
- Proven experience in the Life Sciences or Pharmaceutical industry is mandatory.
- Demonstrated ability to manage large, complex programs involving multiple projects and diverse stakeholders.
- Strong skills in program governance, planning, risk management, budgeting, and delivery oversight.
- Experience managing cross-functional and geographically distributed teams.
- Excellent executive stakeholder management and communication capabilities.
- Proficient in program reporting, RAID (Risks, Assumptions, Issues, Dependencies) management, dependency tracking, and escalation processes.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple initiatives while delivering business outcomes on time and within budget.

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience working with global pharmaceutical or biotechnology clients.
- Knowledge of regulatory frameworks including GxP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and Computer System Validation (CSV).
- Background in enterprise application modernization, cloud transformation, data analytics, or integration programs.
- Experience managing global vendors, consulting partners, and offshore delivery teams.
- Professional certifications such as PMP, PgMP, or equivalent program management credentials.

This role offers the opportunity to lead transformative programs in a highly regulated and dynamic industry, working with diverse teams and stakeholders to drive impactful business and technology outcomes.