Director of Operational Excellence – Manufacturing
The Director of Operational Excellence – Manufacturing is a critical leadership role responsible for driving operational efficiency, process optimization, and the deployment of advanced automation technologies across global manufacturing facilities. This position focuses on the strategic development and execution of continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and safety while reducing costs. The role requires strong leadership and collaboration skills to align with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, supply chain, and operations.
Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership: o Develop and implement a global manufacturing excellence and automation strategy aligned with business objectives. o Lead the deployment of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance productivity, quality, and efficiency. o Identify and implement advanced automation technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence, and Industry 4.0 solutions to optimize manufacturing processes. 2. Operational Excellence: o Drive the standardization of manufacturing processes and systems to ensure consistency, quality, and cost-effectiveness across all facilities. o Develop and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and drive improvements in areas such as safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC). o Collaborate with plant managers and site leaders to implement best practices, identify improvement opportunities, and ensure alignment with corporate standards. 3. Project Management: o Lead and oversee automation projects from concept to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. o Coordinate cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, and IT, to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions. o Evaluate and select appropriate technology partners, suppliers, and vendors to support automation initiatives. 4. Continuous Improvement & Training: o Foster a culture of continuous improvement through training programs, workshops, and hands-on support for the global workforce. o Develop and lead training initiatives to upskill employees and enhance their understanding and application of Lean and Six Sigma principles. o Establish and manage a global Center of Excellence for best practices in manufacturing and automation. 5. Financial & Business Impact: o Identify cost-saving opportunities through efficiency improvements, waste reduction, and automation. o Collaborate with the finance team to analyze the impact of improvement projects on business performance.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field; MBA or Master’s degree is a plus.
- 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing operations, with a strong focus on Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and automation technologies.
- Proven track record of implementing large-scale automation projects and driving continuous improvement initiatives in a global manufacturing environment.
- Experience in developing and managing KPIs for operational excellence, safety, and quality.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and regions.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with a results-oriented mindset.
- Experience with Industry 4.0, IoT, robotics, AI, and other advanced manufacturing technologies is preferred.
- Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean certification is a plus. Key Competencies:
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Leadership and influence
- Project management and organizational skills
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Financial acumen and business insight
- Problem-solving and decision-making
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