Lean & Business System Leader

We are seeking a hands-on and results-driven Lean & Business System Leader to drive operational excellence, embed a continuous improvement culture, and implement a robust business system (e.g., XPS, BOS, or similar) at our Ningbo plant. This role is both strategic and execution-oriented—you will not only design and deploy lean tools but also coach the leadership team, build problem-solving capabilities, and directly lead high-impact improvement projects across production, supply chain, and support functions. PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES ： .  Business System Deployment: Design, localize, and implement a standardized business operating system (e.g., daily management, tiered accountability, standard work, visual management) across all functions. Lean Transformation: Lead the end-to-end lean journey—from value stream mapping to kaizen events, 5S, TPM, SMED, pull systems, and flow optimization. Drive measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and inventory. Capability Building: Coach and develop the Plant Manager, functional managers, and frontline supervisors on lean principles, problem-solving (A3 / PDCA), and data-driven decision-making. Build internal lean trainers to sustain the culture. Performance Management: Establish and track key operational KPIs (OEE, FTY, OTD, inventory turns, productivity). Drive daily/weekly performance review routines with clear action plans. Change Management: Act as a change agent to shift mindsets from “fire-fighting” to “systematic improvement”. Facilitate workshops, gemba walks, and leadership coaching sessions. Project Pipeline: Identify, prioritize, and lead cross-functional improvement projects with clear financial and operational impact. Report progress to senior leadership regularly.

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field. MBA or Master’s degree in Operations / Lean Management is a strong plus. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certification is highly preferred.

10 years  of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, with  at least 5 years  in a dedicated Lean / Continuous Improvement / Operational Excellence role. Proven track record of deploying a business operating system (e.g., Danaher DBS, Honeywell HOS, Toyota TPS, or similar) in a multinational or joint-venture manufacturing environment. Experience in  mid-to-large scale manufacturing  (assembly, machining, or chemical processing) – preferably in automotive, industrial equipment, or consumer goods. Hands-on experience in coaching leaders at different levels—from shop-floor to middle management. Prior experience in a  plant with weak operational maturity  is a plus—ability to build from ground up. MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS: Lean Expertise: Deep knowledge of TPS / lean tools and ability to tailor them to local culture and business needs. Business Acumen: Understands P&L, cost drivers, and can translate operational improvements into financial impact. Coaching & Influencing: Strong ability to influence without authority; can coach a non-operations-experienced Plant Manager effectively. Change Agent: Resilient, patient, yet persistent in driving cultural change. Data-driven: Strong analytical skills; comfortable with data analysis and visualization tools. Communication: Fluent in English and Mandarin; excellent presentation and facilitation skills. Leadership Potential: Demonstrates strategic thinking, ownership, and a growth mindset—ready to take on broader roles in 2–3 years. MANAGEMENT/SUPERVISION: Functional Coverage: Production, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and support functions (indirect influence) Budget: Manage CI budget, training expenses, and small capital improvement projects