IE & Digital Kaizen Leader

Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and visionary Industrial Engineering & Kaizen Leader to spearhead our digital transformation initiatives on the shop floor and across value streams. This role is a unique fusion of classic Lean Manufacturing principles and cutting-edge digital technologies. You will be responsible for leveraging Industrial Engineering (IE) methodologies to identify opportunities, and then leading Kaizen events to design, pilot, and scale digital solutions that fundamentally improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC).
You are not just an improvement expert; you are a change agent who understands how data, IoT, AI, and automation can revolutionize traditional processes. Your goal is to build a smarter, more connected, and highly efficient operational ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
1. Digital Transformation Strategy & Leadership:
Partner with site and functional leadership to develop the digital transformation roadmap for operations, aligning with corporate objectives.
Identify and prioritize high-impact opportunities where digital tools can solve chronic operational issues or unlock new levels of performance.
Champion the cultural shift towards a data-driven, digitally-enabled continuous improvement mindset.
2. Industrial Engineering & Process Analysis:
Conduct detailed process studies using classic IE tools (Time & Motion Study, Value Stream Mapping, Workflow Analysis) to establish baselines and identify waste.
Analyze process data to quantify problems and validate the impact of implemented solutions.
Design optimized digital-ready processes, standard work, and layouts.
3. Digital Kaizen Facilitation & Project Management:
Lead and facilitate rapid improvement (Kaizen/Blitz) events focused on implementing digital solutions. Examples include:
Digital Visual Management:
Implementing Andon systems, electronic performance boards (e-SQDCP).
Automated Data Collection:
Deploying IoT sensors for machine monitoring, energy management, or environmental tracking.
Process Automation:
Identifying and leading RPA (Robotic Process Automation) projects for administrative tasks.
Advanced Analytics:
Using data from MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) and ERP to drive predictive analytics for maintenance (PdM) or quality.
Manage the full project lifecycle for digital Kaizen projects: from scoping and team formation to implementation, training, and follow-up audits.
4. Technology Implementation & Integration:
Act as the bridge between Operations and IT/OT (Operational Technology) teams.
Evaluate, select, and manage vendors for digital tools and platforms.
Lead hands-on configuration, testing, and deployment of digital solutions, ensuring they integrate seamlessly with existing systems (e.g., ERP, MES, CMMS).
5. Coaching & Capability Building:
Train and coach team members, team leaders, and managers on the principles of Lean, IE, and Digital Transformation.
Develop a pipeline of internal talent capable of sustaining and advancing the digital continuous improvement culture.
Create standardized work and documentation for new digital processes.
Qualifications & Experience
Required:
Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum of 7-10 years of proven experience in Industrial Engineering and leading Kaizen/Continuous Improvement activities in a manufacturing or logistics environment.
Demonstrable experience in leading at least two full-cycle digital transformation projects (e.g., implementation of a digital Andon, MES module, IoT platform, or RPA).
Strong proficiency in value stream mapping, time study, standard work development, and line balancing.
Excellent data analysis skills, with high proficiency in MS Excel, statistical software (e.g., Minitab), and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
Exceptional facilitation, communication, and change management skills.
Highly Preferred:
Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Black Belt or Master Black Belt highly preferred).
Hands-on experience with:
Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
IoT platforms and sensor technology.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools (e.g., UiPath, Automation Anywhere).
Principles of IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and Industry 4.0.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent experience.
Personal Competencies
Strategic Thinker:
Sees the big picture and connects operational improvements to business strategy.
Innovative & Curious:
Passionate about technology and its practical application to solve real-world problems.
Results-Oriented:
Driven by data and tangible outcomes in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
Influential Leader:
Able to inspire and lead cross-functional teams without direct authority.
Resilient & Adaptable:
Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and overcomes obstacles