Lean Manager (Vulcanic)

About the Role

This role is responsible for driving Continuous Improvement (CI) and developing the Operational Excellence (OpEx) framework across the Americas. The position will play a key role in embedding Lean principles, identifying process improvement opportunities, and delivering measurable operational performance gains across manufacturing sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and deployment of the Operational Excellence framework across Americas sites, ensuring alignment with global standards
• Apply strong Lean principles to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and improve process performance
• Deliver and support GOLD-level Continuous Improvement activities in line with internal CI standards, with ongoing development toward higher levels
• Facilitate and lead CI workshops (e.g., Kaizen, value stream mapping, root cause problem solving) to drive sustainable improvements
• Identify, prioritize, and execute process improvement initiatives across manufacturing and support functions
• Provide hands-on support to sites, including the ability to lead or support changeover (SMED) improvement exercises where required
• Coach and train site teams in Lean tools and CI methodologies to build internal capability
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, quality, supply chain) to deliver end-to-end improvements
• Support standardization and best practice sharing across sites
• Own the CI savings delivery for the ETS Americas, track and validate savings against forecasted targets
• Participate in weekly meetings with the Manufacturing Engineering Manager to review: CI Updates: Progress on savings, project status, and new opportunities; OPEX Maturity: Site-level progress and training needs

Requirements

• Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., SMED, 5S, VSM, root cause analysis, standard work)
• Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvements in a manufacturing environment
• Experience leading CI workshops and engaging cross-functional teams
• Ability to operate at a GOLD level within CI standards, with a mindset for continuous development
• Hands-on, practical approach with the ability to work both strategically and on the shop floor
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Key Attributes

• Proactive and results-driven with a strong continuous improvement mindset
• Comfortable working across multiple sites and cultures
• Able to balance strategic framework development with hands-on execution
• Strong problem-solving capability with attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Bilingual preferred (Spanish, French, German)

Development

• Opportunity to progress to higher levels within the CI framework through training and practical application
• Exposure to global Operational Excellence initiatives and best practices

Additional Notes

• The role requires flexibility to support site-based improvement activities, including hands-on involvement in manufacturing processes where needed
• Travel within the Americas is required (1-2 times/month)