Global Lean Operations Expert

Mission

The Global Lean Transformation Expert is responsible for developing and implementing Lean strategies across our global manufacturing footprint. This role ensures the adoption of Lean methodologies drives operational excellence and fosters a culture of continuous improvement. The expert will lead crossfunctional teams optimize processes and develop Lean capabilities across all levels of the organization to enhance efficiency productivity and quality while reducing waste and costs.

Responsibilities

Lean Strategy & Implementation

• Develop and deploy Lean strategies in alignment with the companys Lean purpose.
• Lead and coordinate the global rollout of Lean methodologies (5S Kaizen Value Stream Mapping Kanban Six Sigma).
• Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and implement best practices for operational management.
• Promote digitalization and standardization across plants to enhance efficiency and scalability.
• Define and execute a roadmap for Lean transformation across multiple regions.

Process Optimization

• Organize and lead Kaizen events to drive performance improvements.
• Conduct 5S audits and establish best practices for workplace organization.
• Monitor KPI performance across global operations and take corrective action when targets are not met.
• Analyze existing warehouse and manufacturing processes to identify areas of improvement.
• Drive initiatives to optimize warehouse layouts reduce cycle times and improve material flow.
• Implement quality control measures to prevent defects and ensure temperature consistency in cooling and packaging operations.
• Define maintenance programs both autonomous and preventive to ensure equipment reliability.

Change Management & Leadership

• Manage and mentor the Lean team to ensure successful deployment of Lean initiatives.
• Provide Lean training and coaching to employees at all levels to embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Engage with key stakeholders to promote understanding and support for Lean principles.
• Collaborate with the Operations team to ensure alignment between Lean initiatives and business objectives.
• Partner with external organizations to stay up to date with best practices and emerging Lean trends.
• Drive cultural transformation towards a mindset of operational excellence and efficiency.

Strategic Leadership & Global Coordination

• Define and oversee the implementation of Lean tools and methodologies across all sites.
• Establish and monitor performance metrics to track the success of Lean initiatives.
• Engage with senior leaders to align Lean programs with corporate strategic objectives.
• Partner with suppliers to drive continuous improvement across the supply chain.
• Ensure standardization and sustainability of improvements within operations teams.
• Lead task forces for manufacturing excellence deployment and ensure effective communication across regions.

Requirements

• Bachelors or masters degree in engineering Manufacturing Logistics or Quality Management.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in a leadership role driving Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proven experience managing regional or global manufacturing operations
• P&L management and ownership experience is a plus.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully implementing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Expertise in Lean principles (5S Kaizen Six Sigma Value Stream Mapping Kanban Root Cause Analysis Process Mapping).
• Strong analytical skills to interpret extensive data sources and identify waste inefficiencies and costsaving opportunities.
• Experience in leading digital transformation and automation in manufacturing.
• Knowledge of ERP systems (SAP preferred) for process optimization and reporting.
• Strong understanding of warehouse and cooling systems operations.
• Familiarity with quality management systems and regulatory compliance.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to drive change in a complex environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven ability to lead crossfunctional teams and manage global projects.
• Strong training and mentoring capabilities to develop Lean competencies within teams.
• Wellstructured with a goaloriented and datadriven mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fastpaced dynamic and multicultural environment.
• International Travel Requirement
  This position requires approximately 50% international travel often on short notice and to countries with varying visa and entry requirements. To support this candidates must possess a valid passport and be eligible to obtain visas for multiple countries. In some cases the role may require the acquisition and use of a second passport to facilitate travel to countries with conflicting entry restrictions or overlapping visa timelines. The company will provide support including formal letters and documentation to assist with applications for second passports where eligible. Candidates who currently hold dual citizenship or are eligible for a second passport are encouraged to indicate this in their application.