ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

External Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobgether

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Head of External Sterile Operations based in Netherlands. This ...

MIRATECH

Operations Administrative Support

Tulsa, OK · On-site

External Operations Manager Cooperates with: All Departments Primary Responsibility: Provides operations and administrative support to MIRATECH's Tulsa (Corporate) facility. Duties and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExternal Operations JobsExternal Operations Manager Jobs

External Operations Manager information

See salary details

$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do external operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for external operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an External Operations Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an External Operations Manager, you need strong leadership, project management, and analytical skills, typically supported by a degree in business, logistics, or a related field. Familiarity with supply chain management systems, ERP software, and relevant industry certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma is highly beneficial. Excellent interpersonal skills, negotiation abilities, and adaptability help build effective relationships with external partners and stakeholders. These skills ensure seamless coordination, efficient operations, and the achievement of organizational goals through strong external collaboration.

How much is the salary of an operations manager?

The salary of an External Operations Manager typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior or specialized roles may offer higher compensation, and additional benefits such as bonuses or stock options are common in some organizations.

What is the highest salary of an operations manager?

The highest salaries for operations managers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in large corporations or high-cost regions. Senior operations managers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma tend to earn the top salaries in the field.

What does an External Operations Manager do?

An External Operations Manager oversees and coordinates a company's activities that involve external partners, vendors, or clients. Their primary responsibilities include managing relationships with suppliers, ensuring contract compliance, and optimizing external workflows to meet business objectives. They also analyze external processes for efficiency, handle negotiations, and often serve as the main point of contact for external stakeholders. This role is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and fostering positive business relationships outside the organization.

What is the difference between External Operations Manager vs Supply Chain Coordinator?

AspectExternal Operations ManagerSupply Chain Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, or related field; certifications like APICS CSCP or CPSMBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business; certifications like APICS CPIM or CSCP
Work EnvironmentOversees external partners, vendors, and logistics providers; often involves travel and client interactionCoordinates internal supply chain activities; works closely with procurement, warehousing, and distribution teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, retail, and logistics companies managing external relationshipsCommon in manufacturing, retail, and distribution centers focusing on internal supply chain processes

The External Operations Manager focuses on managing external relationships and logistics partners, ensuring smooth operations outside the company. In contrast, the Supply Chain Coordinator handles internal supply chain activities, coordinating between departments to optimize inventory and distribution. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in supply chain management, but their primary focus and work environment differ.

What are the 5 P's of operations management?

The 5 P's of operations management are Product, Process, People, Plant, and Planning. These elements help managers optimize production efficiency, quality, and resource allocation. Understanding and balancing these components is essential for effective operations in roles like External Operations Manager.

How does an External Operations Manager typically collaborate with internal teams and external partners?

An External Operations Manager acts as a crucial liaison between their organization and external partners, such as suppliers, vendors, or logistics providers. They regularly coordinate with internal teams like procurement, sales, and logistics to ensure that external operations align with company goals and standards. Effective communication and negotiation are essential, as the role often involves resolving conflicts, managing expectations, and ensuring smooth workflow across organizational boundaries. Building strong, trust-based relationships is key to successfully managing these collaborations and driving operational efficiency.

What other jobs can an operations manager do?

An operations manager can transition into roles such as project manager, supply chain manager, or business analyst, leveraging skills in process optimization, leadership, and strategic planning. They may also move into executive positions like director of operations or COO, often requiring experience with data analysis, budgeting, and team management.
More about External Operations Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for External Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most External Operations Manager job openings:
What states have the most External Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for External Operations Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching External Operations Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for External Operations Manager jobs are:
External Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various External Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Head of External Sterile Operations

Jobgether

Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Head of External Sterile Operations based in Netherlands.

This leadership role is responsible for shaping the strategy, governance, and performance of an external sterile manufacturing network within a highly regulated healthcare environment.
You will oversee critical supplier partnerships, ensuring reliable supply, operational excellence, and long-term value creation across external manufacturing operations.
The role combines strategic leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on relationship management with key external partners.
You will guide teams, drive performance improvements, manage complex negotiations, and support business continuity across a global network.
Working closely with Supply Chain, Quality, Technical Services, Procurement, and business leaders, you will influence how external operations are managed and optimized.
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery by ensuring patients have continued access to high-quality medicines.

Accountabilities:

The Head of External Sterile Operations will lead the strategy and execution of external manufacturing operations, ensuring supplier performance, supply continuity, and operational excellence across assigned partners. This role requires strong leadership, stakeholder management, and the ability to navigate complex manufacturing and supply environments.

  • Lead and develop a team of External Operations Managers responsible for managing key third-party manufacturing relationships.
  • Define and execute the strategy, governance model, and performance expectations for external sterile manufacturing partners.
  • Own senior-level supplier relationship management across supply, quality, service, cost, compliance, and operational performance.
  • Lead executive business reviews, governance meetings, and strategic discussions with external manufacturing partners.
  • Drive major commercial, contractual, and capacity negotiations with external suppliers.
  • Partner with Supply Chain and business leaders to align capacity planning, supply strategies, and network priorities.
  • Manage major escalations related to supply disruptions, operational challenges, quality concerns, and performance risks.
  • Build strong cross-functional alignment across Quality, Technical Services, Procurement, Legal, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams.
  • Establish standards, processes, and best practices for external operations governance and supplier management.
  • Support product transfers, launches, lifecycle changes, and network optimization initiatives involving external manufacturers.
Requirements:

The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in sterile operations, external manufacturing, and supplier management within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or similarly regulated environment. You should combine strategic thinking with strong operational execution skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.

  • 15+ years of experience in sterile operations, pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotech operations, or related regulated industries.
  • Proven experience managing complex third-party manufacturing or CDMO relationships.
  • Strong background in external manufacturing, supplier relationship management, supply chain, technical operations, procurement, or quality functions.
  • Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams within a matrix organization.
  • Experience negotiating commercial agreements, contracts, capacity commitments, and strategic partnerships.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with experience managing supply disruptions, escalations, and operational risks.
  • Experience developing supplier governance frameworks, performance scorecards, and risk management strategies.
  • Previous people leadership experience, including managing managers or senior operational professionals.
  • Knowledge of sterile manufacturing networks, sterile supply chains, and external production environments is highly preferred.
  • Experience supporting product transfers, launches, lifecycle management, or manufacturing network changes is advantageous.
  • Strong communication, influencing, and executive presentation skills.
Benefits:
  • Competitive salary package aligned with experience and market expectations.
  • Comprehensive benefits designed to support health, wellbeing, and financial security.
  • Inclusive and collaborative working environment focused on innovation and meaningful impact.
  • Opportunities for career growth, professional development, and leadership progression.
  • Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options.
  • Opportunity to contribute to global healthcare operations and improve access to essential medicines.
How Jobgether works:
We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.
We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!
 Why Apply Through Jobgether? 
 
Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.
 
 
#LI-CL1
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply