Operations Excellence Project Lead

As the Operational Excellence Lead, the prime objective is supporting the industrial areas & customers in operational excellence in the effective and consistent deployment of our operational excellence programme including all one Safran fundamentals. The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this Job Description are indicative and may vary over time. Jobholders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, level and scope of the role.

The focus being the deployment of the Industrial standards into the Industrial processes.

• Champion the implementation of One Safran Project Management Standards by ensuring consistent use of One Safran project management methodologies and tools across all improvement initiatives.
• Promote best practices through sharing, embedding and reinforcing project management best practices throughout the organization to drive standardization.
• Plan and coordinate projects by developing and managing project plans aligned with One Safran requirements, including clear objectives, timelines, deliverables, and risk management.
• Support project teams through coaching and support to project leaders and teams on the application of One Safran principles, ensuring effective project execution.
• Monitor progress and compliance by tracking project milestones, ensuring adherence to One Safran standards and timely delivery of results.
• Provide robust project governance, deliver regular updates, and report progress against KPIs using established One Safran templates and dashboards.
• Ensure alignment with business objectives by linking project management activities to broader organizational goals, reinforcing how One Safran methods contribute to operational and strategic outcomes.
• Advance existing standards and processes through the implementation and continuous improvement of One Safran tools and methodologies.
• Ensure all Operational Excellence activities are conducted with a focus on environmental responsibility and sustainability.
• Support the deployment and implementation of the Safran Operational Excellence Roadmap/Flight Plan.
• Undertake additional duties as needed to support overall business priorities.
• Deploy operational strategies that align with business objectives, customer requirements, and organizational goals.
• Lead, inspire, and empower teams in the adoption and adherence to operational excellence standards and best practices.
• Build strong, effective relationships with both internal and external customers to foster transparency and alignment.

• In-depth understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
• Understanding of project management frameworks (preferably One Safran Project Management).
• Proven experience in leading and delivering successful continuous improvement projects at a plant or business‑unit level.
• Demonstrated track record in coaching, mentoring, and developing cross‑functional teams in a manufacturing or operational environment.
• Hands‑on experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence initiatives, from concept through to sustained implementation.
• TWI (Training Within Industry) certification or in‑company train‑the‑trainer program.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development in operational excellence, continuous improvement, or leadership.

• Familiarity with root cause analysis, problem‑solving tools, and change management techniques.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or equivalent advanced level certification).
• Strategic thinking – ability to align improvement initiatives with organizational objectives and long‑term strategy.
• Proactive leadership – takes initiative, drives progress, and inspires teams to achieve ambitious targets.

• Analytical skills: strong ability to interpret data, conduct root cause analysis, and make data‑driven decisions.
• Project management: competence in planning, executing, and tracking multiple projects using standardized methodologies.
• Coaching and mentoring: ability to develop others, transfer knowledge, and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
• Attention to detail: ensures accuracy and thoroughness in analysis, documentation, and reporting.

• Comfortable using advanced analytical tools.
• Excellent communication skills with stakeholders at all levels.