Senior Manager – Kaizen (Continuous Improvement)

Proton; Malaysia; On-site; MYR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive manufacturer in Malaysia is seeking an experienced Senior Manager, Kaizen to lead quality and continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will implement Lean methodologies, drive systematic problem-solving, and cultivate a Kaizen culture across the organization. Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and at least 10 years of experience in the automotive industry. This opportunity offers a chance to influence organizational transformation within a passionate team.

Benefits

Opportunity to influence large-scale transformation

Work with a dynamic team committed to excellence

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, preferably in the automotive industry.
• Hands-on experience in Lean Manufacturing, engineering, and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and manage overall Kaizen / CIMO / Industrial Engineering activities.
• Oversee the implementation of Lean tools and techniques including LEAN & 5S.
• Identify and prioritize improvement opportunities; set SMART goals and design action plans.
• Lead and motivate teams to implement improvements and measure results.
• Facilitate collaboration and communication across teams.

Skills

Kaizen concepts, methods, and tools

Lean Manufacturing

Leadership, coaching, and people development

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Communication and stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or similar discipline

Job description

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and highly driven Senior Manager, Kaizen to lead, plan, and manage all quality and continuous improvement initiatives across Proton Plants. This role works closely with cross‑functional teams, including Production, Engineering, Support Groups, and Plant Leadership, to cultivate a strong Kaizen and Lean culture aligned with World Class Manufacturing standards.

You will champion the implementation of Lean methodologies, drive systematic problem‑solving, and nurture a continuous improvement mindset at all levels of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and manage overall Kaizen / CIMO / Industrial Engineering activities.
• Oversee the implementation of Lean tools and techniques including LEAN & 5S.
• Identify and prioritize improvement opportunities; set SMART goals and design effective action plans.
• Lead and motivate teams to implement improvements and measure results.
• Minimize wastage and optimize the use of Man, Machine & Materials.
• Facilitate strong collaboration, communication, and feedback across teams.
• Resolve conflicts and overcome resistance to change through leadership and coaching.
• Adapt to dynamic work environments and cultivate a continuous learning culture.
• Inspire and influence others to embrace Kaizen initiatives.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or similar discipline (or equivalent qualification).
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, preferably in the automotive industry.

Skills & Knowledge Required

• Strong knowledge of Kaizen concepts, methods, and tools.
• Hands‑on experience in Lean Manufacturing, engineering, and project management.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and people development capabilities.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to drive change.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a leading automotive manufacturer with continuous improvement at the core.
• Opportunity to influence large-scale organizational transformation.
• Work with a passionate and dynamic team committed to excellence.