Site HSE Manager
Novartis
Summary
The Manager, Health, Safety and Environment, is responsible for supporting the expansion of Durham campus operations to include Large Molecule drug substance production at our new facility in RTP, NC. This vital position will develop, implement, and track completion of HSE deliverables and needs (e.g., design input, construction safety, HSE operational readiness prior to the start of operations). The role will support overall project success, as well as ensure robust implementation of HSE systems, programs, and controls prior to start of operations. The role will be on the LMO SLT and act as primary point of contact to that platform providing expert support across HSE topics. This role will be the Functional Lead for Occupational Safety programs across the Durham campus's overall Gene Therapy/LMO/ADP operations. This role will lead implementation of robust HSE programs to ensure the protection of associated and the environment while simultaneously contributing to a strong, proactive, and enabling HSE culture.
Job description
Job Description Summary
The Manager, Health, Safety and Environment, is responsible for supporting the expansion of Durham campus operations to include Large Molecule drug substance production at our new facility in RTP, NC. This vital position will develop, implement, and track completion of HSE deliverables and needs (e.g., design input, construction safety, HSE operational readiness prior to the start of operations). The role will support overall project success, as well as ensure robust implementation of HSE systems, programs, and controls prior to start of operations. The role will be on the LMO SLT and act as primary point of contact to that platform providing expert support across HSE topics. This role will be the Functional Lead for Occupational Safety programs across the Durham campus's overall Gene Therapy/LMO/ADP operations. This role will lead implementation of robust HSE programs to ensure the protection of associated and the environment while simultaneously contributing to a strong, proactive, and enabling HSE culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and implementation of robust HSE programs and controls to ensure safe and compliant start-up of LMO production operations.
- Integrate LMO-specific HSE requirements into site-wide frameworks, including processes, systems, and training programs.
- Partner with internal teams and external providers to deliver world-class safety performance, particularly across construction and operational activities.
- Serve as a trusted HSE advisor, providing expert guidance on risk management, regulatory compliance, and transparent reporting.
- Drive Occupational Safety excellence by leading critical programs such as Process Safety, Electrical Safety, Fire Protection, and Emergency Response.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to embed HSE priorities into daily operations, aligning with broader site strategy and performance goals.
- Establish and monitor HSE metrics and KPIs, delivering actionable insights to support continuous improvement and leadership reporting.
- Build HSE capabilities across the site through training, engagement initiatives, and strong safety governance structures.
- Ensure comprehensive risk assessments, hazard analysis, and technical evaluations for new operations, equipment, and materials.
- Champion a high-performance safety culture by leading audits, investigations, regulatory interactions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Essential Requirements
- 8+ years of HSE program development/management experience in a manufacturing/laboratory environment, preferably within the biopharmaceutical industry.
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, or related field.
- Professional HSE certifications (e.g., CSP, CIH or equivalent) highly desired.
- Prior experience supporting the design and startup of new LMO/ADP facilities and manufacturing operations (e.g., PHAs, P&ID/design documentation review, HSE operational readiness) highly desired.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills for coaching and collaboration.
- Ability to adapt communication styles based on audience and effectively advise on complex matters.
- Creative problem solver, strong multi-tasker, and excellent oral and written communication skills.
Requirements
- 8+ years of HSE program development/management experience in a manufacturing/laboratory environment
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology, or related field
- Professional HSE certifications (e.g., CSP, CIH or equivalent) highly desired
- Prior experience supporting the design and startup of new LMO/ADP facilities and manufacturing operations
- Outstanding interpersonal skills for coaching and collaboration
- Ability to adapt communication styles based on audience
- Creative problem solver, strong multi-tasker, and excellent oral and written communication skills
Benefits
- Health benefits
- Life insurance
- Disability benefits
- 401(k) with company contribution and match
- Performance-based cash incentive
- Annual equity awards
- Vacation
- Personal days
- Holidays
Company overview
Novartis is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, dedicated to reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As an innovative medicines company, Novartis focuses on developing high-value treatments that address society's greatest disease burdens through technology leadership in research and development. The company operates across five core therapeutic areas: cardiovascular, renal and metabolic diseases; immunology; neuroscience; oncology; and hematology. With a workforce of approximately 75,883 employees worldwide, Novartis reaches nearly 300 million patients across 118 countries. The company leverages advanced technology platforms including targeted protein degradation, cell therapy, gene therapy, radioligand therapy, and xRNA to develop breakthrough treatments. Novartis maintains a strong portfolio of oncology drugs and generics while continuously expanding its pipeline through strategic acquisitions and internal research. The company's commitment extends beyond drug development to ensuring global access to medical innovations through novel access approaches and patient assistance programs.