Lead Industrial Engineer - Operational Transformation

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Home office budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Industrial Engineer to drive global operational transformation with a strategic, digitally focused mindset. The role is fully remote, requiring leadership across diverse business units and a passion for continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in analytics, simulation, optimization, and modern digital technologies, and possess the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels internationally.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering with a focus on operational strategy and transformation.
• Experience leading global projects and remote cross-functional teams.
• Expertise in analytics, simulation, optimization, and digital transformation technologies (AI, ML, IoT).
• Strong lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and agile practices.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement in virtual settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic design and implementation of large-scale operational transformation projects.
• Analyze end-to-end processes to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop innovative solutions leveraging digital technologies, automation, and lean principles.
• Mentor and guide a globally dispersed team of engineers and project managers.
• Collaborate with executives to define operational strategy and KPIs.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Remote team leadership

Industrial engineering

Lean & Six Sigma

Stakeholder influencing

Virtual facilitation

Change management

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Advanced analytics

Simulation

Optimization techniques

AI/ML/IOT

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking multinational corporation with a strong digital presence, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead operational transformation initiatives. This is a senior, fully remote role, demanding a strategic mindset and the ability to drive significant change across diverse business units. You will be responsible for analyzing complex operational challenges, conceptualizing innovative solutions, and leading the implementation of advanced industrial engineering methodologies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and profitability on a global scale. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of digital transformation in operations, and a proven ability to influence stakeholders at all levels, remotely. This role is perfect for a seasoned professional looking to make a lasting impact on a global operational landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic design and implementation of large-scale operational transformation projects.
• Analyze end-to-end business processes to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement using advanced industrial engineering techniques.
• Develop and champion innovative solutions, leveraging digital technologies, automation, and lean principles.
• Mentor and guide a team of industrial engineers and project managers across various geographical locations.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to define operational strategy and set performance objectives.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and robust reporting mechanisms to track progress and measure the impact of transformation initiatives.
• Facilitate remote workshops, training sessions, and stakeholder alignment meetings.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence throughout the organization.
• Conduct feasibility studies and business case development for significant operational investments.
• Ensure alignment of operational improvements with overall business goals and digital strategy.
• Facilitate remote workshops, training sessions, and stakeholder alignment meetings.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on operational strategy and transformation.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex, global projects and managing cross-functional teams remotely.
• Expertise in advanced analytics, simulation, optimization techniques, and digital transformation technologies (e.g., AI, ML, IoT).
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and agile methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences, especially in a virtual setting.
• Proven ability to drive change and achieve measurable results in large organizations.
• Experience in a technology-driven or digitally-focused industry is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a substantial base salary of R per annum , significant performance bonuses, and long-term incentives. This is a fully remote position, offering ultimate flexibility. The comprehensive benefits include executive-level health insurance, generous retirement contributions, and an annual budget for professional development, conferences, and home office setup. Employees will be part of a global, innovative team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of operational efficiency and digital innovation. This role provides unparalleled autonomy and the opportunity to shape the future of global operations.