Head of Change, Communication

ELEVATE is Fresenius ́ global business transformation program, redefining how we operate across the Fresenius Group by rolling out harmonized processes and cutting-edge IT platforms (SAP S/4HANA). As Head of Change, Communication & Training (m/f/d), you will be responsible for the human part of this transformation: enabling people to engage, adapt and thrive. You will shape the mindset and capability shift for a global user base and lead a high-impact team of experts in change, communications and learning. This is more than a support function – it is a driving force for adoption, identity, and lasting transformation in one of the world's most regulated industries (i. e. adherence to life-sciences regulatory requirements or GxP/CSV compliance).

Your assignments

• Lead Global Change & Adoption: Design and execute a structured, scalable change strategy aligned with ELEVATE's objectives and timeline. Translate complex transformation goals into actionable, people-centered interventions across regions and functions. Drive adoption through tailored messaging, leader enablement, impact analysis and change readiness planning. Develop and expand the change story in a way that fosters trust, enhances clarity, and drives forward momentum.
• Drive Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership Sponsorship: Secure and leverage executive sponsorship for the program. Build and maintain strong relationships with business leaders and key stakeholders. Proactively identify and address resistance by defining stakeholder impacts and driving awareness – for example, "gain executive sponsorship, manage stakeholders…drive stakeholder awareness" as highlighted in best-practice change models.
• Inspire Through Targeted, Trusted Communication: Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive communications plan and materials (presentations, newsletters, video content, intranet articles, etc.). Ensure all communications are clear, consistent and tailored to relevant audiences. Coordinate with corporate communications functions and workstreams to cascade key messages and best practices.
• Enable Value Realization Through Training & Capability Building: Oversee the design and rollout of global training and enablement programs (including user guides, e-learning modules, instructor-led workshops, job aids, etc.). Work with process owners and vendors to create curriculum that addresses identified skill gaps and role-specific needs across geographies. Evaluate learning outcomes and continuously improve training content and delivery methods.
• Foster a High-Impact, Collaborative Team: Manage, mentor and grow the Change, Communications and Training leads across regions. Provide clear direction and support, ensure workload is balanced, and foster a collaborative team culture. Drive the development of team expertise and promote the sharing of lessons learned and best practices.
• Ensure Alignment & Compliance: Coordinate change activities with the program's global process governance. Work closely with Global Process Owners to ensure that processes are standardized and optimized. Ensure the change program complements program governance, project plans and timing.
• Measure What Matters: Establish metrics and feedback mechanisms to track progress (e.g., readiness surveys, adoption KPIs, communication reach). Conduct regular change-readiness and post-implementation assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of communication and training efforts. Report status, insights and recommendations to program leadership and adjust strategies as needed.
• Sustain Regulatory Compliance: Integrate compliance requirements into all change and learning initiatives. Ensure training and documentation meet life-sciences quality standards (GxP, CSV validation, FDA/EMA guidelines) to safeguard product quality and patient safety.

Your profile

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in organizational change management, communications or learning & development, leading large global transformation programs.
• Bachelor's degree required (Master's or MBA is a plus).
• Professional certifications in change management, project management (PMP) or corporate communications are advantageous.
• Demonstrated success managing multi-disciplinary teams (including change, communications and training professionals) in a matrixed, multinational environment.
• Ability to set vision, delegate effectively and develop talent.
• Deep knowledge of change management frameworks and best practices.
• Strong skills in stakeholder analysis, change impact assessment and readiness planning.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.
• Solid background in learning design and instructional methods.
• Skilled at developing curriculum and using modern training approaches (classroom, virtual, e-learning).
• Familiarity with life sciences business processes and regulatory environment is highly desirable.
• Understanding of GxP/CSV validation requirements and experience operating in a GxP-regulated setting.
• Strong technical literacy in SAP S/4HANA or similar ERP solutions.
• Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
• Highly collaborative, with strong influence and relationship-building skills.
• Willingness to work across multiple time zones and travel internationally as needed.