Director Continuous Improvement - Europe

About the role

The Director Continuous Improvement will lead the enterprise‑wide Lean transformation across manufacturing, distribution and commercial functions for a Europe‑wide operation. This remote position reports to senior leadership and drives cultural change through structured problem‑solving and Kaizen execution.

Key responsibilities

• Lead deployment of the company’s Lean operating system across all value streams.
• Establish and manage a Kaizen pipeline aligned with strategic priorities.
• Facilitate high‑impact Kaizen events, using value‑stream mapping, Gemba observation and data analysis.
• Build Lean capability through coaching, training and mentorship of champions.
• Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality and Commercial teams to align initiatives with business strategy.
• Define KPIs, dashboards and governance structures to track progress and ensure sustainability.

Required profile

• 10+ years leading Lean/TPS transformations in manufacturing or supply‑chain environments.
• Proven impact on SQDIPC performance metrics.
• Experience running Kaizen events across operational and transactional functions.
• Strong track record collaborating with senior leaders and cross‑functional teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain or related field (preferred).
• Lean certification such as Black Belt or Lean Practitioner (preferred).
• Willingness to travel 60%+ of the time.

Required skills

• Deep knowledge of Lean/TPS tools: Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, Standard Work, Visual Management, Flow/Pull Systems.