Senior Manager Strategic Customer Projects (m/f/x)

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Manager Customer Projects to join our team. In this role, you will initiate, lead, and execute strategic, large-scale operational initiatives within the ZEISS Shared Production Unit to deliver against requirements from internal and external customers (e.g., product ramp-ups, launches of new products, production transfers, and economic optimizations). You will ensure successful project delivery in alignment with customer expectations and serve as the go-to person for ZEISS internal and external customers, including senior management.

• Identify, scope, structure, and lead strategic and operational projects with ZEISS Strategic Business Units, external customers, and the Shared Production Unit team
• Be the go-to person for all projects; take responsibility for successful delivery and represent projects to internal and external customers
• Manage projects to ensure on-time, on-budget, and quality delivery
• Bring an outside-the-box perspective to find best solutions in a multi-stakeholder environment
• Coordinate cross-functional activities and ensure alignment with customer requirements and strategic objectives
• Communicate progress, risks, and decisions clearly to all stakeholders and senior management

Your Profile

• Degree with excellent final grades in sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, economics, or a related field
• Multi-year practical experience in management consulting, project management, corporate strategy, operations, or sales/key account management in ZEISS-related industries
• Track record in customer-facing roles (e.g., consulting, sales, key account management)
• Operational excellence experience is a plus; experience in operations/production engineering or R&D is beneficial
• Strong entrepreneurial, strategic thinking and solution-oriented mindset
• Demonstrated ability to partner with all levels of the organization and achieve alignment in a complex stakeholder setting
• Fluent in English and German; strong communication and lateral leadership skills

Your Role