Associate Director - Operations Data Management Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Location Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Job ID R-231156

Date posted 09/07/2025

Job Title: Associate Director - Operations Data Management

Career level: E

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to make a significant impact in the world of data management? As the Associate Director of Operations Data Management, you'll lead a dynamic team of data professionals dedicated to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of master data across our manufacturing and supply chain operations. This role is crucial for supporting the business in planning, procuring, and producing materials efficiently while adhering to regulatory requirements and company standards. Are you prepared to drive innovation and excellence in data processes?

Accountabilities:

Master Data Management:

• Drive the creation and maintenance of master data in the company's ERP systems, including Material Masters, Bills of Materials, and Recipes.
• Ensure data management processes align with global standards and ensure SAP business processes support operational needs.
• Work with peer Data Management team leads to find opportunities for standardisation & efficiencies within the data management processes (SOPs, Work instructions, task aids).
• Proactively seek and implement process improvements using data analysis, market research, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Champion & drive use of automation to deliver data maintenance activities.

Leadership, Line Management & Team Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of data professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Provide performance management, coaching, and support to team members, ensuring they have the necessary skills and flexibility.
• Foster a culture of problem solving & continuous improvement initiatives, driving innovation in data processes and enhancing overall data accuracy and usability.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure all activities align with relevant regulations, cGMP, quality standards, and the company’s Code of Conduct.
• Manage data quality standards, drive team to perform corrective actions, and ensure site compliance to global data standards.
• Understand root cause behind defects and carry out necessary enhancements to return to standard & avoid repeat defects.

Project and Change Management:

• Lead or participate in local and global projects, representing the data management and process improvement perspectives.
• Manage the continuous improvement program impacting data management and support budget processes and departmental metrics.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners to optimize process performance and competitiveness.
• Represent the organization in global forums and lead governance meetings related to data management.
• Prepare and oversee reports, analytics, and dashboards that support business decision-making in relation to Data Management activities.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related discipline.
• 5-10 years of professional experience in supply chain management, materials management, or a related field.
• Strong communication, engagement, and relationship-building skills.
• Proven experience in managing, developing, and delivering system-oriented business processes.
• Proven experience leading and developing a team.
• Proven track record of team and/or project leadership and driving cross-functional collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to manage delivery through others.
• Understanding of automation technologies, including robotic process automation (RPA), natural language processing (NLP), and machine learning algorithms and potential application in data maintenance.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Advanced degree or APICS certification.
• Experience in a Lean manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of SAP ERP systems and project management experience.
• Experience with AI/ML frameworks like TensorFlow, Chatbot, ChatGPT, or similar, with a track record of applying these technologies to solve complex business challenges.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

AstraZeneca offers an environment where innovation thrives amidst constant new products and launches. Our commitment to life-changing medicines drives us forward as we continuously seek new ways to deliver them to patients. With a focus on sustainable lifecycle management, we encourage active participation in shaping our future. Here, you'll find a diverse team connected globally, interpreting science with business needs to apply manufacturing excellence. If you're driven by challenge and eager to make a big impact, AstraZeneca is where you can thrive.

Ready to take on this exciting challenge? Apply now to join our team!

Date Posted

Closing Date

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.