Site Lean Champion

Role Summary

The Site Lean Champion leads and coordinates the implementation of Lean 4.0 practices across production, quality, and laboratory areas. They coach site leadership and front-line teams to build Lean and problem-solving capabilities, using data and digital tools to drive performance improvements and ensure process compliance. They collaborate with Quality and Operations to optimize systems, workflows, and culture to sustain Lean initiatives site-wide.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the implementation of Lean 4.0 practices across production, quality, and laboratory areas.
• Facilitate the deployment of core Lean systems such as Tier Management, Standard Work, Visual Management, Value Stream Mapping, and Kaizen events.
• Act as a coach for site leadership and front-line teams to build Lean and problem-solving capabilities.
• Use data and digital tools to analyze performance, identify improvement opportunities, and track progress.
• Collaborate with Quality and Operations to improve quality systems and ensure process consistency and compliance.
• Support laboratories in optimizing workflows, reducing errors, and improving turnaround times through Lean and digital methods.
• Work effectively with external consultants and internal stakeholders to implement improvement initiatives quickly and sustainably.
• Lead communication, engagement, and recognition activities to strengthen the Lean culture at the site.
• Ensure alignment with the Lean 4.0 global strategy, sharing best practices and lessons learned across sites.
• Within area of responsibility, understand and comply with all safety, environmental and quality practices and procedures as outlined in organizational/departmental guidelines and SOPs as well as applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Science, Operations Management, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in Operational Excellence, Lean Transformation, or Quality Systems improvement within manufacturing or laboratory environments.
• Demonstrated experience improving quality systems and laboratory operations through Lean methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to use digital tools (dashboards, data analysis software) to drive insights and performance improvements.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing Lean initiatives that deliver measurable results in productivity, quality, and engagement.
• Experience working collaboratively with consultants and cross-functional teams to implement solutions rapidly and effectively.
• Excellent facilitation, coaching, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Lean Green Belt certification preferred, Lean Black Belt desirable.