Lean Director (Automotive)
The Lean Director will be responsible for leading lean manufacturing and continuous improvement strategies for manufacturing operations.
This position will spearhead multi-faceted operational excellence initiatives via core continuous improvement and lean principles including but not limited to: eliminating waste, improving quality, reducing lead times, and increasing productivity.
Responsibilities
- Develop and lead the Lean transformation roadmap for manufacturing operations
- Implement and sustain Lean methodologies including 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Kanban, TPM, and Visual Management.
- Identify and eliminate waste throughout multiple value streams to increase throughput and efficiency.
- Work closely with operations, engineering, quality, supply chain, and warehouse teams to align Lean initiatives with business goals.
- Analyze current processes and workflows using data-driven approaches to identify areas for improvement.
- Facilitate Kaizen events and rapid improvement workshops to drive cross-functional engagement and results.
- Mentor, coach, and train all levels of the organization in Lean principles and tools.
- Establish and monitor performance metrics (e.g., productivity, OEE, takt time, scrap/rework rates).
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and problem-solving across all levels of the organization.
- Partner with leadership to develop change management strategies and ensure effective communication throughout Lean initiatives.
- Recruit and develop the continuous improvement team consisting of CI managers and Industrial Engineers
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
- 10+ years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years leading Lean initiatives.
- Proven success in deploying Lean tools and improving operational KPIs.
- Experience leading Lean efforts in a high-mix, medium-volume environment.
- Lean Six Sigma certification (Black Belt or equivalent) preferred.
- Excellent leadership, facilitation, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work hands-on on the shop floor and influence at all organizational levels.
Submit Your Resume
ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
Start with your Short List
Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
Practice Areas
Our practice areas are led by highly experienced executive recruiters who take great care in fully understanding client requirements and candidate qualifications.
• Accounting and Finance
• Information Technology
• Operations
• Engineering
• Sales
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Legal
• Construction
• Supply Chain
• Consumer Package Goods (CPG)
Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
