Role Overview for Director, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) with a Global Pharma – Princeton, NJ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a world-renowned global pharmaceutical company in their search for a visionary and strategic Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS). Based at their key R&D and corporate campus in Princeton, NJ, this executive leadership role is critical to upholding the company’s commitment to protecting its employees, the environment, and the communities in which it operates. The successful candidate will be a dynamic leader responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of all EHS programs and policies across multiple sites.
This is not merely a compliance role; it is a strategic business partnership. You will be the senior EHS authority, providing expert counsel to executive leadership and collaborating across functions—from research and development to manufacturing and corporate operations—to embed a world-class safety culture. You will champion initiatives that go beyond regulatory requirements, driving sustainability, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring that safety is an intrinsic value throughout the organization. Your leadership will directly contribute to the company’s operational excellence, brand reputation, and its mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients worldwide. If you are a seasoned EHS professional with a passion for the life sciences industry and a proven track record of strategic leadership, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) with a Global Pharma – Princeton, NJ
The Director of EHS will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Leadership and Program Development
- Develop and execute a comprehensive, long-term EHS vision and strategy that aligns with corporate objectives and industry best practices.
- Design, implement, and manage robust EHS management systems (e.g., ISO 14001, ISO 45001) to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and reporting mechanisms to track EHS performance, identify trends, and inform strategic decisions.
- Chair the site EHS committee and serve as the primary EHS advisor to senior site leadership, providing regular updates on performance, risks, and strategic initiatives.
- Oversee the EHS budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to meet program goals and mitigate risks.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure full compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including those set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other relevant bodies.
- Proactively monitor the regulatory landscape for changes that could impact the organization and develop strategies for timely compliance.
- Lead comprehensive risk assessment programs, including Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), job hazard analyses, and ergonomic assessments, to identify and mitigate workplace hazards.
- Oversee a rigorous incident investigation process, ensuring root cause analysis is performed and effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) are implemented to prevent recurrence.
- Manage all regulatory reporting, permitting (air, water, waste), and serve as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies during inspections and inquiries.
Operational EHS Management
- Provide expert guidance on complex technical EHS issues specific to a pharmaceutical environment, including chemical safety, biosafety, radiation safety, industrial hygiene, and laboratory safety.
- Develop and oversee comprehensive EHS training programs for all levels of the organization, ensuring employees and contractors are equipped with the knowledge to work safely.
- Manage the site’s emergency preparedness and response programs, including conducting drills, training response teams, and maintaining emergency plans.
- Oversee environmental programs, including waste management (hazardous and non-hazardous), wastewater treatment, air emissions, and sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing the company’s environmental footprint.
- Champion a proactive safety culture through visible leadership, employee engagement programs, and behavior-based safety initiatives.
Team Leadership and Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of EHS professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback and coaching, and support the professional growth of team members.
- Structure the EHS department effectively to provide outstanding support to all business functions across the site.
Requirements for the Director, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) with a Global Pharma – Princeton, NJ
The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic acumen, and inspirational leadership skills. We are seeking a professional who can influence change and drive a culture of safety and sustainability.
Education
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health and Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field is required. A Master of Science (M.S.) degree is highly preferred.
Experience
- A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in Environmental, Health, and Safety roles.
- At least 7 years of experience in a leadership or management capacity, with demonstrated success in building and leading EHS teams.
- Significant experience within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry is mandatory. Experience in both R&D and manufacturing environments is a strong plus.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing strategic EHS programs that have resulted in measurable improvements in safety performance and compliance.
Certifications
Professional certification such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies
- In-depth, expert knowledge of federal and state EHS regulations (OSHA, EPA, NJDEP, etc.).
- Strong technical skills in industrial hygiene, toxicology, biosafety, risk assessment, and environmental engineering principles.
- Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels, from the lab floor to the executive suite.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and concisely.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, prioritize effectively, and lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in EHS management software and data analysis tools.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, recognizing that their success is driven by their people. The package includes:
Competitive Compensation
A generous base salary, annual bonus potential, and long-term incentives (stock options/equity).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options for you and your family. On-site fitness center and wellness programs.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a significant company match.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays. Flexible work arrangements may be available.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to employee growth with tuition reimbursement, support for professional certifications, and opportunities to attend industry conferences.
Family Support
Paid parental leave, family care resources, and other supportive benefits.
Additional Perks
Employee assistance program (EAP), life and disability insurance, and employee discount programs.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Director of EHS role. We specialize in connecting top-tier talent with leading companies in the life sciences sector. If you are a transformative EHS leader ready to make a significant impact within a global pharmaceutical leader, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. For more information about our expertise and to explore other opportunities, please visit our Life Sciences Recruiting practice area. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how this role aligns with your career aspirations.
JRG Partners and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
