OPEX Leader

Smith+Nephew; Fort Worth (TX); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k Matching Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Discounted Stock Purchase Plan

Hybrid Work Model

Job summary

Smith+ Nephew is seeking an Operational Excellence Lead in Fort Worth, TX, to partner with the Site Leadership Team and drive a multi-year transformation program. You will deploy the Smith+ Nephew Business System across all site functions and end-to-end processes, embedding a culture of continuous improvement.

The role requires 8+ years in Lean and strong data analysis, coaching, and project management. A Master’s is preferred; Hybrid work is available with a focus on strategic transformation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field required.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Proven experience leading Lean transformations across cross-functional facilities.
• Proven ability to analyze complex data and make data-based recommendations.
• Experience training and coaching teams.
• Experience in project and program management.
• Change Management experience and ability to influence.
• Minimum 8 years in process improvement and Lean experience.
• Hands-on track record implementing lean-based business systems including Strategy Deployment, Lean Leadership, DMAIC, Value-Stream Mapping, Kaizen, KPI Management, and Shop Floor management.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Site Leadership to develop and execute a multi-year transformation roadmap aligned with strategy.
• Lead deployment and maturity of the Smith+ Nephew Business System across site functions and end-to-end processes.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence using Lean methods.
• Develop, implement, and monitor site KPIs to support objectives and performance.
• Lead strategic programs and complex projects delivering sustainable improvements.
• Coach and develop operational excellence capabilities across all levels.
• Support digitization and automation initiatives with Operations Technology teams.
• Facilitate value stream improvements focusing on customer experience and efficiency.
• Improve decision-making frameworks and problem solving within high-performing teams.
• Collaborate with global OPEX teams to share best practices and tools.
• Provide updates to site and global leadership teams.

Skills

Lean transformation

DMAIC

Kaizen

Change management

Project management

Data analysis

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering/Operations/Related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

• Microsoft Office expertise

Life. Unlimited. At Smith+ Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

Join Smith+ Nephew as an Operational Excellence Lead and play a pivotal role in transforming operations at our Fort Worth, Texas site. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity where you will partner with the Site Leadership Team to drive continuous improvement, accelerate business performance, and embed a sustainable culture of operational excellence. You will lead the deployment of the Smith+ Nephew Business System, influence change across multiple functions, and help shape the future of the site through strategic transformation initiatives.

What will you be doing?

• Partner with the Site Leadership Team to develop and execute a multi year transformation roadmap aligned with business and corporate strategy
• Lead deployment and maturity progression of the Smith+ Nephew Business System across all site functions and end to end processes
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence through Lean Management Systems and structured problem solving methodologies
• Develop, implement, and monitor site KPIs that support business objectives and operational performance
• Lead strategic programs and complex projects that deliver sustainable business improvements
• Coach, mentor, and develop operational excellence capabilities across all levels of the organization
• Support digitization and automation initiatives in partnership with Operations Technology teams
• Facilitate value stream improvements focused on customer experience, operational efficiency, and profitable growth
• Improve decision making frameworks and problem solving capabilities within high performing teams
• Collaborate with global Operational Excellence colleagues to share best practices and strengthen business system tools, templates, and processes
• Provide regular updates and progress reporting to site and global leadership teams

U.S. Sponsorship or H1B transfer is not available for this role.

What will you need to be successful?

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field required. Master's degree preferred
• Leadership roles from disciplines such as operations, supply chain, or engineering
• Prior experience leading a lean transformation across a cross‑functional facility
• Proven ability to analyze complex data, and develop evidence‑based conclusions and data‑based recommendations
• Proven track record for developing, training, and coaching teams
• Experienced in project and program management
• Experience in Change Management with demonstrated ability to act as an influential change agent
• Minimum 8 years in process improvement and Lean experience
• Minimum of 8+ years of experience and “hands on” track record of implementing successful lean based business systems including elements such as:
  • Strategy Deployment and A3 Thinking
  • Lean Leadership (Daily Management, Visual Management, Gemba Walks, Leader Standard Work)
  • Structured Problem Solving (i.e. DMAIC) utilizing a formal program/process
  • Value‑Stream Mapping
  • Kaizen events
  • Implementation of Tiered Accountability/KPI Management across functions and businesses
  • Daily/weekly Shop Floor management systems
• Experience in regulated industry (i.e. Pharmaceutical, Medical Device) preferred.
• Business and financial acumen
• Six Sigma experience and/or certification a plus
• Med-Tech or Healthcare experience a plus
• Microsoft Office expertise

You. Unlimited.

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

Inclusion and Belonging:

Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging.

Your Future:

401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Purchase Plan, Tuition Reimbursement.

Work/Life Balance:

Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day.

Your Wellbeing:

Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program.

Flexibility:

Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles).

Training:

Hands On, Team Customized, Mentorship.

Extra Perks:

Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more

Smith+ Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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