Manufacturing Execution System

Cochlear is the global market leader in implant hearing solutions. Cochlear's mission is to help people hear and be heard. Around the world, more people chose a Cochlear-branded hearing implant system than any other. A Cochlear Implant is an electronic device that is surgically implanted under the skin near the ear that restores hearing to those who suffer from severe hearing loss. It’s an incredible piece of engineering and the only product in the world that restores a sense through technology. Imagine using your experience to help people around the world to hear again. We can offer a unique opportunity to join Cochlear, an iconic Australian company, leading the world in implantable hearing solutions. Our mission is to help more people to hear.

Cochlear is looking for a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Manager on a permanent full-time basis, based in Cochlear’s global headquarters in Macquarie University.

This position will play a critical role in driving operational efficiency, data integrity, and compliance within the manufacturing environment. This position offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to make a significant impact on the organization's digital transformation journey.

As the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Manager, you will assume global responsibility for overseeing the end-to-end management of the MES. This will involve strategic planning, system design and configuration, master data management, as well as system maintenance and support.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Define system requirements and needs in alignment with organizational objectives.
- Provide strategic direction for the MES, ensuring scalability and adaptability for all foreseeable future needs.
- Responsible for the governance and ownership of the core MES functional template.
- Validate system functionality and performance.
- Lead the identification and implementation of enhancements and updates.
- Oversee site specific solutions ensuring they follow the fundamental principles of the core template.
- Develop and execute test plans and test scripts to ensure system reliability.
- Generate and maintain technical documentation including procedures and work instructions, ensuring they are kept up to date through regular document currency reviews in-line with QMS requirements.
- Facilitate system setup for new products, requirements, and updates.
- Oversee system change implementation processes.
- Validate and maintain system data in accordance with established standards.
- Act as the steward for MES data, adhering to enterprise data governance policies and procedures and together with the Data Strategy Team ensure MES data quality and data integrity is always maintained.
- Build a team of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for ongoing system deployment, support escalation, troubleshooting, and issue resolution.
- Plan and conduct user training sessions to ensure proficiency and compliance with system protocols.
- Perform routine system maintenance tasks to uphold optimal performance.
- Provide support during regulatory audits, ensuring MES compliance.
- Manage user access setup and maintenance processes to safeguard system security.
- Manage system updates and upgrades to maximise system availability and avoid unplanned downtime.
- Lead the design and development of programs to drive growth aligned to Cochlear's strategy

About You:

- Minimum 10+ years in a similar position
- Minimum - Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Proven experience in MES design, configuration, and implementation within a global manufacturing environment.
- Experience working with Critical Manufacturing MES Platform.
- Strong understanding of master data management principles and practices.
- Proficiency in system validation methodologies and quality assurance processes.
- Experience working and integrating with ERP systems such as Oracle or SAP
- Strong collaboration skills to work closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, engineering, quality assurance, and production, to achieve MES objectives and support business goals.
- Strong leadership skills to guide and motivate teams, foster collaboration, and drive continuous improvement in MES processes.
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards relevant to manufacturing operations, such as FDA regulations or ISO standards.
- Proficiency in project management methodologies to effectively plan, execute, and monitor MES-related initiatives.

Cochlear’s mission is to help people hear and be heard. As the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, Cochlear is dedicated to helping people with moderate to profound hearing loss experience a life full of hearing. We aim to give people the best lifelong hearing experience and access to innovative future technologies. We collaborate with the industry’s best clinical, research and support networks. That’s why more people choose Cochlear than any oth