Lead Program Scheduler

OverviewThe Lead Program Scheduler is responsible for developing, integrating, and managing master schedules across multiple projects or a large capital program within the life sciences sector (pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical devices). This role ensures alignment of engineering, procurement, construction, CQV (Commissioning, Qualification & Validation), and operational readiness activities to support timely delivery in a GMP-regulated environment.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Scheduling & IntegrationDevelop and maintain an integrated master program schedule across multiple projects or workstreamsAlign project-level schedules (engineering, EPC, CQV, validation, and startup) into a single program viewEstablish program-wide scheduling standards, structures, and reporting frameworksEnsure consistency in scheduling methodologies across all projectsStrategic PlanningSupport program leadership with long-term planning, scenario analysis, and schedule optimizationDefine key milestones including design, construction completion, CQV phases, and regulatory readinessIdentify program-level critical paths and interdependenciesDrive schedule alignment with business and production goalsStakeholder ManagementCollaborate with project managers, CQV leads, engineering teams, quality assurance (QA), and supply chainInterface with senior leadership to provide schedule insights and decision supportLead cross-project schedule review meetings and governance forumsEnsure clear communication of risks, impacts, and mitigation plansProgress Tracking & ReportingMonitor program-wide progress and performance against baseline schedulesProduce executive-level reports, dashboards, and KPIsProvide forecasting, earned value analysis, and trend analysisHighlight delays, resource constraints, and recovery plansRisk & Compliance ManagementIdentify and manage program-level schedule risks and opportunitiesIncorporate mitigation strategies and contingency planningEnsure alignment with GMP requirements and validation timelinesSupport inspection readiness and regulatory milestonesTools & SystemsLead the use of enterprise scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project)Oversee schedule data integrity and governanceIntegrate schedules with digital project controls and quality systems (e.g., Veeva, Kneat)Drive adoption of best-in-class scheduling tools and practicesQualificationsEducationBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Project Management, or related fieldExperience10–15+ years of experience in project/program scheduling within life sciences or regulated industriesProven experience managing large capital programs or multiple concurrent projectsStrong experience with CQV and validation scheduling in GMP environmentsExperience with greenfield and/or brownfield pharmaceutical or biotech facilities preferredSkills & CompetenciesAdvanced expertise in program and portfolio schedulingStrong understanding of life sciences project lifecycle (design → construction → CQV → validation → startup)Deep knowledge of GMP regulations and compliance considerationsExpert-level proficiency in Primavera P6 (preferred)Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skillsStrong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilitiesLeadership ResponsibilitiesLead and mentor a team of schedulers/planners across the programEstablish governance, standards, and best practices for schedulingDrive continuous improvement in program controls and reportingAct as the subject matter expert for scheduling within the programWork EnvironmentTypically based at program office or project site (pharmaceutical/biotech facility)May require travel across multiple project locationsHybrid working may be available depending on program phaseKey Performance Indicators (KPIs)Program milestone achievement (design, construction, CQV, validation)Schedule performance and adherence across all projectsAccuracy of forecasts and executive reportingEffective management of critical path and interdependenciesStakeholder satisfaction and decision support effectivenessSummaryThe Lead Program Scheduler plays a critical role in ensuring successful delivery of complex life sciences programs by integrating multiple project schedules into a cohesive, strategic plan. This role enables informed decision-making, ensures regulatory readiness, and supports the timely delivery of facilities that meet stringent GMP requirements.