Process & Operational Excellence Lead

Bleckmann; Netherlands; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Bleckmann is seeking a Process & Operational Excellence Lead to drive continuous improvement and onsite automation ramp-up within a dynamic logistics environment. The role combines process optimization with hands-on implementation support across operations, IT, and customer service.

Ideal candidates will have Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification (or willingness to obtain), a background in warehouse automation, and experience with WMS like Manhattan. English and Dutch fluency is required.

Qualifications

• Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in automation, process improvement, or operational roles within logistics, warehousing, or e-commerce.
• Hands-on experience in warehouse operations, order fulfillment, and last-mile logistics.
• Fluent in English and Dutch, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives with automation and cross-functional teams.
• Support onsite automation testing, commissioning, and ramp-up.
• Develop best practices for automation technologies and operational processes.
• Deliver training to operators for ramp-up readiness and efficiency.
• Create and maintain documentation and training materials for future implementations.
• Handover to local operations after ramp-up targets are met.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Hands-on leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Degree in Supply Chain/Logistics or related field

Tools

Manhattan WMS

ASRS systems

Excel

Power BI

SQL

Job description

Ready to Join the Backstage Crew?

At Bleckmann, we’ve been delivering on promises since 1862. As a market leader in supply chain management for fashion and lifestyle brands, we keep the show running behind the scenes — from moving boxes to moving data, from pack & ship to IT and HR.

But we’re not just logistics experts. We’re The Backstage Crew — a tight-knit team of 6,500+ people who make fashion and lifestyle brands shine by doing the work that matters most, out of the spotlight but never out of impact.

Whether you're on the warehouse floor or behind a screen, you’ll find:

• Strong connections with colleagues who support and celebrate you.

• Fast growth in a company that’s expanding across Europe, the US, and Asia.

• High energy in a dynamic environment where no two days are the same.

• Guided freedom to take initiative, solve problems your way, and grow your career.

We believe in entrepreneurship, expertise, excellence, and engagement — and we live these values every day. From repairing returned goods to reducing waste, we help brands extend product lifecycles with sustainability in mind.

So if you’re ready to roll out the red carpet for our clients — and for each other — we’ve got a spot for you.

Behind the scenes is where the real excitement begins. Ready to join us?

Tasks and responsibilities:

The Process & Operational Excellence Lead is responsible for leading and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in collaboration with automation and cross-functional teams to optimize operational efficiency, quality, and scalability. This role also supports implementation and ramp-up of automation systems, ensuring a successful transition to local operations.

1. Continuous Improvement & Collaboration (75%)

• Collaborate with automation specialists to identify process improvement opportunities during implementations.
• Provide feedback to improve future implementation processes and share best practices.

Scope of Authority:

• Authorized to propose process improvements and work cross-functionally to enhance implementation efficiency.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Succesfull excecuted Improvement Projects

Additional Responsibilities:

• Identify, design, and implement process improvements to drive efficiency, quality, cost savings, and service level enhancements.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to reduce waste and optimize logistics workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Operations, IT, Customer Service, and Supply Chain to develop scalable solutions.
• Utilize data and KPIs to monitor performance, identify trends, and prioritize areas for improvement.
• Facilitate workshops, value stream mapping sessions, and root cause analyses (RCA) to support ongoing improvements.

2. Onsite Automation Implementation & Ramp-Up (25%)

• Support onsite activities during testing, commissioning, start-up, and ramp-up phases of automation implementation.
• Develop and implement best practices for the use of automation technologies and operational processes.
• Deliver training to operators to ensure readiness and efficiency during the ramp-up phase.
• Ensure adherence to organizational processes throughout the implementation.
• Train local teams on new automation systems and operational workflows.
• Manage a seamless handover to local operations once ramp-up targets are met.
• Create and maintain documentation and training materials for future implementations.

Scope of Authority:

• Authorized to lead onsite activities, conduct training, and make operational decisions to ensure the successful deployment and ramp-up of automation systems.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Achievement of throughput and efficiency targets.
• Smooth and disruption-free handover to local operations.
• Positive feedback from local teams on implementation and training.

Profile:

• Continuous Improvement & Methodologies
  • Proficient in applyingLean, Six Sigma,andKaizenmethodologies
  • Lean Six SigmaGreen Beltcertification preferred (or willingness to obtain)
  • Proven track record in identifying and implementing process improvements that enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness
• Education & Background
  • Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field
  • 3–7 years of experience in automation, process improvement, or operational roles within logistics, warehousing, or e-commerce
  • Hands-on experience in warehouse operations, order fulfillment, and last-mile logistics
• Technical Expertise
  • Strong knowledge of warehouse automation technologies, including extensive experience withASRSsystems
  • Familiar with automation hardware and software used in modern distribution environments
  • Experience working with WMS systems– preferably Manhattan
  • Skilled in using data analytics tools (e.g. Excel, Power BI, SQL) to generate actionable insights
  • Ability to develop and deliver training programs for operational staff
• Soft Skills & Personal Traits
  • Hands-on leader with a proactive mindset and strong ownership of results
  • Structured, analytical, and solutions-oriented
  • Resilient and adaptable in fast-changing, high-growth environments
  • Excellent communication and facilitation skills; capable of engaging stakeholders at all organizational levels
  • Strong team player, able to collaborate across functions including Operations, IT, Supply Chain, and Customer Service
• Additional Requirements
  • Fluent in English and Dutch, both written and spoken
  • Willingness to travel to implementation sites, including extended onsite support during ramp-up phases
  • High interest in emerging technologies and continuous learning in the field of automation and warehousing

What do we offer ?

• Varied job: no day is the same. You work in a challenging and rapidly changing international environment where a high degree of autonomy is entrusted.
• Plenty of room for ideas and initiatives: work for a company where entrepreneurship is central.
• An attractive salary: a comprehensive package tailored to your background.

At Bleckmann, we are guided by our values: We take a parachute and jump (Entrepreneurship), we unpack our knowledge (Expertise), we raise the bar with every box (Excellence), and we spark energy that connects (Engagement).