Lean Manufacturing Director

Hirenex; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK manufacturing group seeks a Lean Manufacturing Director to drive transformation and operational excellence. This high-impact role focuses on implementing lean strategies, optimizing performance, and leading cross-functional teams. Ideal candidates will have extensive manufacturing experience and a strong background in lean methodologies.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of manufacturing and lean leadership experience.
• Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of a lean strategy.
• Implement Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen methodologies.
• Establish KPIs for efficiency and cost optimization.

Skills

Leadership

Change Management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Lean

Six Sigma

Kaizen

ERP

MES

Industry 4.0

Job description

As the Lean Manufacturing Director, you will lead the design and execution of a lean strategy that supports long-term business goals. This role will focus on eliminating inefficiencies, driving cultural transformation, and leveraging technology to boost productivity and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lean Strategy & Implementation
  
  

Develop a lean manufacturing roadmap aligned with strategic objectives

Implement Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies

Eliminate waste and streamline production processes

• Operational Excellence
  
  

Lead initiatives including VSM, 5S, Standard Work, SMED, and Kanban

Introduce data-driven decision-making using real-time KPIs and analytics

Empower employees to identify and solve operational challenges

• Cross-Functional Leadership
  
  

Collaborate across engineering, production, quality, and supply chain

Train and mentor teams on lean tools and best practices

Drive change management and employee engagement in lean initiatives

• Performance Metrics & Cost Optimization
  
  

Establish KPIs for efficiency, cycle time, defect rates, and OEE

Lead cost-reduction and productivity improvement projects

Conduct regular Gemba walks and audits to uphold lean practices

• Digital Transformation & Industry 4.0
  
  

Integrate automation, IoT, AI, and smart manufacturing tools

Develop real-time process dashboards with IT and ops teams

Apply predictive analytics and machine learning to optimize performance

Requirements:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or similar

10+ years of manufacturing and lean leadership experience

Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt preferred

Strong track record in large-scale operational excellence

Knowledge of ERP, MES, and Industry 4.0 is a plus

Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills

This is a high-impact role with visibility across the business—ideal for a seasoned lean expert ready to take the next step in shaping world-class manufacturing operations.

Apply now to lead transformation across a progressive and ambitious UK manufacturing group