Global CoE OT Manager in Ashford

As the Global CoE OT Manager, you will play a critical role in driving the strategy, implementation, and maintenance of OT systems across the organization. You will ensure alignment with global business objectives, support digital transformation initiatives, and maintain secure, reliable, and efficient OT environments. You will liaise with Operations, EHS, Quality, IMS, ManEx, and IT to align programs and projects for improving technical know-how and knowledge in Givaudan. By leading a global team of Regional OT Managers and supporting local OT Champions, you will foster collaboration, standardization, and innovation across all operational sites. In this role you will report directly to the Head of CoE.

Your Main Responsibilities Will Be:

• People Management: Lead and mentor a global team of Regional OT Managers, providing guidance, support, and opportunities for professional growth, while empowering them to enable local OT Champions to drive site-specific initiatives aligned with global standards. Foster a collaborative environment that bridges the gap between IT and OT teams at the global, regional, and site levels. Conduct regular performance reviews, set clear objectives, and implement training programs to enhance team competencies.
• Function Management: Develop and implement a global OT strategy (standardization, security, and skills & knowledge) that aligns with organizational goals and ensures the scalability and sustainability of OT systems. Oversee the management of OT infrastructure, systems, and applications, including SCADA, PLCs, DCS, UNS, MES, and other industrial automation technologies. Co-own IT/OT initiatives by standardizing software (architecture, deployment, training, compliance, lifecycle management), enabling cybersecurity by design, and supporting key program adoption (UNS, MES, IT/OT). Develop OT vision and convert it into programs/projects to achieve company goals. Establish and enforce global OT standards, policies, and best practices across all regions and sites. Ensure compliance with regulatory, cybersecurity, and operational safety requirements for standardized OT systems. Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to align OT initiatives with enterprise-wide goals. Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies and incorporating them into the global OT roadmap. Ensure transfer of best practices from local organization and embed them into standards. Provide support to project teams at each phase of projects involving process engineering, whether in the context of a site upgrade or new factory, i.e., during design, trial, commissioning and start-up phases. Ability to create and maintain a network of experts within Givaudan. Responsible for content development for training and startup of new equipment where applicable.

Your Professional Profile Includes:

• Bachelor’s degree / MSc in Computer Science, Automation, or a related field.
• Fluent in English.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in Operational Technology, Industrial Automation, or related fields such as Manufacturing, Energy, Utilities, or Process Industries.
• Proven track record of leading and managing geographically dispersed teams, including Regional OT Managers and other senior-level technical professionals.
• Experience working in a multinational organization with cross-cultural and cross-functional teams.
• In-depth knowledge of OT systems, including SCADA, MES, PLCs, DCS, HMI, and related industrial automation technologies.
• Strong understanding of IT/OT convergence and associated challenges, such as network integration and data sharing.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks and standards applicable to OT environments (e.g., IEC 62443, NIST).
• Experience with cloud computing, IoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies.

Our Benefits:

• Attractive package with benefits.
• Excellent opportunities for progressive learning and development.
• A creative team environment that will inspire you.
• Other local benefits based on where you are based.

We also have a safe working environment, progressive working conditions and are certified as an equal pay employer. Givaudan is committed to equal opportunities. Therefore, we welcome applications regardless of cultural and social background, gender, age, religion or sexual identity.