Head of EHS, Solothurn

• Full-time
• Region: EU+/Canada
• Department: Environmental Health & Safety

Job Description

About This Role

The Solothurn manufacturing site is a large-scale biologics drug substance manufacturing site with over 400 Biogen FTEs and a commensurate contract workforce. As the Head of EHS for the site you will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of Environmental, Health, and Safety programs at the site. This role ensures compliance with local, national, and global regulations and promotes a culture of safety throughout the organization.

What You’ll Do

EHS Strategy & Leadership:

• Develop and implement the site EHS strategy in alignment with site and corporate objectives.
• Lead the site EHS team, providing direction, goals, mentoring, and support to ensure the effective execution of programs.
• Forecast, plan, and manage site EHS expense and capital budgets.
• Collaborate seamlessly with Global and Site management to integrate EHS objectives into overall business strategies.
• As a member of the Site Leadership Team, actively engage with site leadership and staff on broader business and cultural priorities.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure the site complies with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of required regulatory reports, permits, and documentation.
• Stay current on relevant EHS legislation and regulations and advise leadership on potential impacts to the organization.

Risk Management:

• Identify potential EHS risks and develop proactive mitigation strategies.
• Conduct regular site audits, inspections, and assessments to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead incident investigations and root cause analysis, ensuring corrective actions are implemented effectively.

Safety Culture & Training:

• Promote a proactive safety culture by developing and implementing programs that engage employees at all levels.
• Oversee the design and delivery of EHS training programs for employees, contractors, and visitors.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging feedback and suggestions from employees.

Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship:

• Drive sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction, energy conservation, and pollution prevention.
• Ensure the effective management of hazardous materials and waste in compliance with regulations.
• In coordination with Global Engineering & Facilities and Global and Site management, lead the site’s efforts in achieving corporate sustainability goals and environmental certifications.

Emergency Response & Preparedness:

• In coordination and collaboration with Security and Operations Risk Management, develop and maintain emergency response plans and procedures for the site.
• Coordinate with local emergency services and agencies to ensure preparedness for potential incidents.
• In coordination and collaboration with Security, lead the site’s response to emergencies as appropriate, ensuring the safety of employees and the protection of assets.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

• Establish, monitor, and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for EHS performance and track progress against
• targets.
• Prepare and present EHS performance reports to senior leadership, identifying trends and recommending actions.
• Benchmark site EHS performance against industry standards and best practices.

Who You Are

You have environment, health and safety experience leading a site, where you are responsible for managing all aspects of Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) to ensure compliance, risk mitigation, and environmental sustainability. Your experience and knowledge involves leading EHS programs, collaborating with site leadership, setting EHS goals, managing budgets, and preparing for emergency situations, with a focus on reducing injury, illness, and business interruptions at our large-scale biologics manufacturing facility.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive EHS experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role; 15 or more years of experience preferred
• Minimum 7 years' experience in managing EHS programs in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment; biologics manufacturing experience preferred
• Detailed knowledge of EHS Management Systems, technical programs and legislation
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical drug development and manufacturing processes and medicinal regulatory requirements
• Demonstrable track record of driving safety culture transformation and leading successful EHS initiatives.
• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or similar are preferred.
• Proficient in both written and spoken German and English.

Additional Information

Why Biogen?

We are a global team with a commitment to excellence, and a pioneering spirit. As a mid-sized biotechnology company, we provide the stability and resources of a well-established business while fostering an environment where individual contributions make a significant impact. Our team encompasses some of the most talented and passionate achievers who have unparalleled opportunities for learning, growth, and expanding their skills. Above all, we work together to deliver life-changing medicines, with every role playing a vital part in our mission. Caring Deeply. Achieving Excellence. Changing Lives.

At Biogen, we are committed to building on our culture of inclusion and belonging that reflects the communities where we operate and the patients we serve. We know that diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives make us a stronger and more innovative company, and we are focused on building teams where every employee feels empowered and inspired. Read on to learn more about our DE&I efforts.