Lean & Business System Leader

Watts Water Technologies · Ningbo

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.

EDUCATION:

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.

EXPERIENCE:

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

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