Head of Operational excellence
Head of Operational Excellence
Role Purpose
The Head of Operational Excellence is responsible for driving continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and performance optimization across the organization. This role establishes and embeds a culture of excellence by implementing best practices, standardizing processes, and leading transformation initiatives to deliver sustainable business results.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Leadership
- Define and lead the Operational Excellence strategy aligned with overall business objectives
- Act as a strategic partner to senior leadership to improve organizational performance
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability
- Lead and develop a high-performing Operational Excellence / Continuous Improvement team
Continuous Improvement & Transformation
- Identify, prioritize, and implement improvement initiatives across functions
- Drive large-scale transformation programs (e.g., cost optimization, productivity, digitalization)
- Apply methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or Agile to improve efficiency
- Establish and govern improvement roadmaps and track measurable outcomes
Process Optimization & Standardization
- Design, implement, and standardize key business processes across the organization
- Ensure processes are efficient, scalable, and aligned with best practices
- Lead process mapping, redesign, and simplification activities
- Promote the use of data, automation, and digital tools to optimize operations
Performance Management
- Define KPIs, metrics, and dashboards to measure operational performance
- Monitor performance trends and provide insights to senior leadership
- Ensure accountability for delivery of operational targets
- Benchmark performance against industry standards and drive gap closure
Change Management & Culture
- Drive change management initiatives to ensure successful adoption of improvements
- Build continuous improvement capabilities across the organization
- Deliver training and coaching on improvement methodologies and tools
- Foster cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing
Stakeholder Management
- Collaborate closely with business units (e.g., Operations, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, IT)
- Influence senior stakeholders and align cross-functional priorities
- Act as a key interface between corporate strategy and operational execution
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Business, Operations, or related field
- 10+ years of experience in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, or Operations leadership
- Proven track record of leading large-scale transformation and improvement programs
- Strong expertise in Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt preferred), or similar methodologies
- Experience in change management and organizational transformation
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strategic thinking and execution
- Leadership and team development
- Influencing and stakeholder management
- Process improvement and operational discipline
- Data analysis and performance management
- Communication and change leadership
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