Global Head of Product Technology and Engineering Operations

The Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Global Head of Product Technology and Engineering (PT&E) Operations. This strategic position will drive operational excellence across our global PT&E community of over 500 professionals. As a key member of our leadership team, you'll shape and execute our operations strategy, champion continuous improvement, and lead the development of global standards that enhance our organizational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement robust operational standards across systems, processes, and organizational structures
• Lead the development and execution of a global continuous improvement portfolio to achieve productivity targets
• Drive the PT&E Operations strategic agenda and ensure effective implementation across all regions
• Collaborate with Digital and RDIT teams to deliver agile, automated processes
• Manage and develop a team of 3-4 direct reports and provide leadership to 5-6 Operations Leads
• Facilitate monthly operations meetings with site and operations leads
• Maintain the PT&E Global Hub and ensure consistent documentation of processes
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational excellence
• Lead cross-functional business processes and represent PT&E in broader Syngenta initiatives

What We're Looking For

• Proven global leadership experience, including successfully leading other leaders
• Strong understanding of R&D, Production & Supply, and PT&E organizations and processes
• Expertise in continuous improvement methodologies and change management
• Demonstrated ability to influence across functional boundaries and build effective networks
• Excellence in problem-solving, communication, and negotiation skills
• Strategic mindset with the ability to set ambitious goals and deliver results
• Experience in managing complex, global operations
• Strong analytical and process-oriented approach
• Ability to work effectively with ambiguity and drive decisions in uncertain environments
• Track record of successful stakeholder management across multiple geographies
• Experience in implementing and optimizing information management systems

This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our global operations while working with diverse teams across our worldwide organization. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in driving operational excellence and continuous improvement across our PT&E function.

Syngenta Crop Protection is a leader in agricultural innovation, bringing breakthrough technologies and solutions that enable farmers to grow healthy and nutritious food while taking care of the planet. We offer a leading portfolio of crop protection solutions for plant and soil health, as well as digital solutions that transform the decision-making capabilities of farmers. Our 17,900 employees serve to advance agriculture in more than 90 countries around the world. Syngenta Crop Protection is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, and is part of the Syngenta Group.

Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. Regardless of your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding an ever-increasing population while taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

Location

The preferred location is Jealott's Hill, but other Syngenta locations could be considered.

Our site

Jealott's Hill International Research Centre UK is situated in pleasant semi-rural surroundings between Bracknell and Maidenhead and is the place of work for approximately 800 Syngenta scientists and support staff. Jealott’s Hill is one of the main global research and development sites and key activities include research into discovery of new active ingredients, new formulation technologies, product safety and technical support of our product range.

What we offer

• Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
• Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
• We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.  
• The chance to work as part of a global team to address the current and future needs of the agricultural sector and help feed an ever-increasing population.
• A vibrant growth and learning culture and wide range of training options.

Syngenta has been ranked as a top 5 employer and number 1 in agriculture by Science Journal.

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Learn more about our D&I initiatives here: https://www.syngenta.com/careers/working-syngenta/diversity-and-inclusion

Jealott’s Hill has Disability Confident certification.

We are committed to making all stages of our recruitment process accessible to all candidates and our Jealott’s Hill site are a Disability Confident Level 2 Employer. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments throughout your application and we will do everything we can to support you.