Job Title: Head of Operations Excellence (Lean)

Location: Global - Virtual

Location Type: Remote

Website: https://www.wmfts.com/en/

Group: https://www.spiraxgroup.com/

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions is part of Spirax Group, a FTSE100 and FTSE4Good multinational industrial engineering group specializing in control and management of steam, electric thermal solutions, peristaltic pumping, and fluid technologies.

Joining us means becoming part of a collaborative and encouraging team, engaging in challenging yet critical work, and experiencing growth opportunities to reach your full potential. Visit our website to learn more.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a talented and motivated Head of Operations Excellence (Lean) to join our dynamic team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive operational excellence strategy aligned with business and manufacturing goals.
• Lead Lean transformation initiatives using methodologies such as Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and A3 Thinking.
• Drive operational improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Coach and develop cross-functional teams and leaders in Lean tools to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Manage change initiatives to ensure adoption across production sites and support functions.
• Establish metrics and KPIs to monitor performance, demonstrate ROI, and report to leadership.
• Collaborate with various departments to embed Lean into daily operations and strategic planning.
• Benchmark against best practices and continuously seek to improve operational performance.
• Prioritize improvement projects that align with business objectives and deliver measurable value.
• Advise senior leadership using data and insights for strategic decision-making.
• Ensure sustainability of improvements through standard work, visual management, and daily management systems.
• Lead problem-solving efforts, including root cause analysis and DMAIC methodology.

Working Relationships:

Manage and provide strategic direction to the Lean team, working closely with executive leadership, site managers, functional heads, frontline teams, and external partners to ensure alignment and effective implementation of Lean initiatives.

Skills and Experience:

• Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field; extensive experience may substitute.
• Proven experience in manufacturing operations and leading Lean initiatives.
• Track record of successful multi-site Lean transformations.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent expertise.
• Deep knowledge of Lean tools, principles, and manufacturing strategies.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on, collaborative leadership style with passion for operational excellence.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Flexible working arrangements
• Generous holiday allowance
• Paid volunteering leave
• Life assurance
• Inclusive benefits through the Group Inclusion Plan

Our Commitment to Inclusion:

We foster an inclusive and equitable culture, supporting flexible working requests and providing additional benefits for various needs, including parental leave, caregiver leave, and support for pregnancy loss or domestic abuse. Learn more at spiraxgroup.com/inclusion.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Accommodations during the application process are available upon request.

Company Overview:

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions, part of Spirax Group, is a leader in manufacturing peristaltic pumps and fluid path technologies for diverse industries including life sciences, food & beverage, and power generation. We are committed to innovation and creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can make a difference, supporting our stakeholders and the planet.