Operational Excellence Partner: Lean & Process Improvement

Eli Lilly and Company; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 143,000; Full time

Job summary

Eli Lilly and Company is launching an Advanced Manufacturing startup in Goochland County, VA. The Operational Excellence Business Partner will drive Lean initiatives, coach teams, and lead cross-functional projects to implement continuous improvement across a new GMP manufacturing site.

The role emphasizes execution and coaching, with training delivery and change-management support to sustain Lean maturity. Travel is minimal, and a competitive benefits package is offered.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in a GMP manufacturing facility.
• Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; Lilly will not sponsor work authorization.
• Direct experience in manufacturing operations for drug substance/product facilities is preferred.
• Experience in Lean Manufacturing or other productivity methods is desirable.
• Strong written and oral communication and interpersonal skills; ability to influence and coach across levels.

Responsibilities

• Support the site agenda through direct project execution.
• Participate in Flow Team governance, identify trends, and lead improvement initiatives.
• Facilitate Operational Excellence training to all levels of employees to support deployment and sustainability of Lean methods.
• Coach and train teams in Lean tools and systems (daily management, A3 thinking, standard work).
• Lead cross-functional teams in initiatives such as Continuous Improvement, RCA, FMEA, and HPR.
• Participate in Operational Excellence Assessments and sustain Lean maturity on site.
• Lead improvement events and deploy OE tools across projects.
• Educate the business on OE approaches and engage leadership to sustain Lean discipline.

Skills

Lean

Root Cause Analysis

Problem Solving

A3 thinking

Standard work

Daily management

Flow Team

Coaching

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Eli Lilly and Company is launching an Advanced Manufacturing startup in Goochland County, VA. The Operational Excellence Business Partner will drive Lean initiatives, coach teams, and lead cross-functional projects to implement continuous improvement across a new GMP manufacturing site.

The role emphasizes execution and coaching, with training delivery and change-management support to sustain Lean maturity. Travel is minimal, and a competitive benefits package is offered.