Job Title: Head of Operations Excellence (Lean)
Location Type: Remote - based in either UK, Italy, France or Germany
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 steam control, electric thermal solutions, peristaltic pumping, and fluid technologies.

Joining us means becoming part of a supportive team, engaging in challenging work, and accessing growth opportunities. Visit our website for more information.

Job Summary:

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

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement an operational excellence strategy aligned with business goals.
• Lead Lean transformation initiatives using methodologies like Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and A3 Thinking.
• Drive operational improvements to enhance productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Coach and develop teams and leaders in Lean tools to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Manage change initiatives across production sites and functions.
• Establish metrics and KPIs to measure performance and communicate progress to leadership.
• Collaborate with various departments to embed Lean into daily and strategic practices.
• Benchmark internal and external best practices to enhance performance.
• Prioritize improvement projects aligned with business objectives.
• Advise senior leadership on operational strategies and investments.
• Ensure sustainability of improvements through standard work and visual management.
• Lead problem-solving efforts like root cause analysis and DMAIC.

Collaboration:

This senior role involves managing and guiding the Lean team, working with executive leadership, site managers, functional heads, frontline teams, and external partners to ensure strategic alignment and effective implementation.

Skills and Experience:

• Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Extensive experience in manufacturing and leading Lean initiatives.
• Proven success in multi-site Lean transformations.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certification.
• Ability to travel up to 50%.
• Deep knowledge of Lean tools, principles, and strategies.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on approach with a passion for continuous improvement.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Flexible working
• Holiday allowance
• Paid volunteering leave
• Life assurance
• Inclusive benefits through our Group Inclusion Plan

Inclusive Culture:

We promote diversity and inclusion, supporting flexible working and providing additional benefits like 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 applications from all backgrounds. Accommodations are available during the application process.

Company Overview:

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions is a leader in peristaltic pumps and fluid technologies, serving industries worldwide. Our purpose is to create sustainable value and a safer, more efficient world through innovation and inclusivity.