The Executive Director – Digital Engineering and Controls will be responsible for leading the strategic vision, development, and implementation of advanced automation, control systems, and digital engineering technologies across the enterprise. This role bridges traditional engineering practices with emerging digital tools (e.g., Industry 4.0, IoT, AI/ML) to enhance operational efficiency, product innovation, and systems integration across global operations.
Digital Transformation Strategy
Lead the enterprise roadmap for digital engineering, smart controls, and intelligent automation.
Integrate digital twins, simulation, and predictive analytics into engineering workflows.
Controls and Automation Leadership
Oversee architecture and deployment of PLC, DCS, SCADA, and IoT-based systems.
Guide standardization and modularization of control system frameworks across operations.
Systems Integration and Interoperability
Ensure seamless integration of control systems with MES, ERP, HMI, and cloud platforms.
Champion open architectures, cybersecurity protocols, and scalable designs.
Innovation and Emerging Technology Adoption
Introduce advanced control technologies, such as AI-driven control loops, digital twins, and edge computing.
Evaluate and implement solutions from robotics, ML, AR/VR, and smart sensors.
Cross-Functional Program Management
Drive cross-functional engineering initiatives with operations, manufacturing, R&D, and IT.
Oversee full lifecycle management from design to commissioning of automated systems.
Governance, Compliance, and Risk Management
Ensure compliance with international standards (e.g., ISA-95, IEC 61131, GMP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11).
Develop robust validation, cybersecurity, and data integrity programs.
Talent Development and Leadership
Build, mentor, and inspire global engineering teams in controls, automation, and digital systems.
Foster a culture of continuous learning and technical innovation.
Vendor and Technology Ecosystem Management
Lead relationships with technology providers (Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, AVEVA, etc.).
Manage licensing, integration partnerships, and co-development programs.
KPIs and Performance Metrics
Define and track engineering and automation performance indicators (uptime, OEE, MTTR, digital maturity).
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s in Electrical, Controls, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
MBA or Executive Leadership credentials preferred.
Experience:
15+ years in engineering leadership, with at least 5+ years in digital transformation or industrial automation roles.
Proven experience deploying smart factory / Industry 4.0 technologies at scale.
Skills:
Expertise in automation architecture (PLC/DCS/SCADA), systems integration, OT/IT convergence.
Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
Understanding of cybersecurity, compliance (GMP, GAMP5), and cloud/edge architectures.