OPEX Leader

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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