Terumo Aortic are currently looking to hire a dynamic and visionary Director of Operational Excellence (OPEX) to lead our journey toward enhanced safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency. This is a key leadership role, focused on embedding continuous improvement across the organization and aligning operations with strategic goals to drive performance and long-term success. About The Role As the Director of Operational Excellence, you’ll develop and implement strategies that optimize processes, streamline workflows, and ensure the consistent adoption of best practices. You'll work cross-functionally to foster a culture where continuous improvement is part of our everyday mindset—built on problem-solving, respect for people, and empowered teams. You’ll also model the behaviors of a forward-thinking leader, mentoring and coaching colleagues at all levels, and building internal capability that supports our operational goals and long-term growth. Key Responsibilities People Lead and coach site teams in lean methodologies through Gemba walks, problem-solving facilitation, and kaizen event leadership. Develop and maintain a robust Operational Excellence training plan, including onboarding and ongoing development for all levels. Mentor operational excellence team members and serve as a site-wide subject matter expert in continuous improvement. Collaborate with the TAG Leadership Team to develop and execute a strategic workforce plan, with specific ownership of its OE components. Build and lead a capable Operational Excellence team to support organizational transformation. Process Facilitate cross-functional kaizen events that introduce and embed lean systems, driving measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency. Design and deploy standardized training and lean systems, including standard work. Lead the annual site Hoshin Kanri planning process to ensure alignment with global strategy and key performance indicators (KPIs). Drive the implementation of our operational excellence strategy at the site level, ensuring sustainable, long-term impact. Promote root-cause problem solving at all levels and lead change management initiatives that build engagement and adoption across teams. Philosophy Champion lean principles—respect for people, continuous improvement, flow, pull, problem-solving, and scientific thinking. Partner with senior leadership to ensure Operational Excellence is at the heart of strategic planning and execution. Foster a culture where continuous improvement is more than a method—it’s a mindset embedded in our values. Experience Required Degree in a relevant subject, with strong experience in a manufacturing environment, ideally with exposure to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) requirements. Higher-level Lean Six Sigma Belt (or equivalent qualification/experience) is desired. Demonstrated ability to provide highly effective leadership in large, complex operational environments—placing people at the heart of performance. Proven track record of driving and leading manufacturing excellence initiatives through Lean tools and techniques. Ability to lead cultural transformation and inspire others, fostering a mindset of innovation and continuous improvement. Strong strategic planning capabilities, with a track record of aligning plans to global objectives and defining key results indicators (KRIs) and KPIs. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build alignment and influence across all levels. Proven ability to influence and motivate senior leaders with a coaching-focused approach to performance improvement. Why Join Us? A pivotal leadership opportunity to make a lasting impact on our operations and culture. Work with a highly engaged leadership team that values innovation, performance, and people. Be part of a company committed to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and employee development.