Role Overview
You’ll be a go‑to expert for Lean Continuous Improvement (LCI) across our Templecombe site. That means embedding robust problem solving (PDCA) and Lean thinking into daily operations, not just running workshops. You’ll coach teams, lead transformations, and drive measurable results across quality, delivery and cost metrics. We don’t want someone who talks about continuous improvement – we want someone who lives it on the shop floor, with the teams, every day. As our Lean Leader at one of our manufacturing facilities in Templecombe, your mission is to make our operations sharper, faster, and better for good. This is a hands‑on, high‑visibility role. You’ll work directly with Site Production, Engineering, Our Autonomous Production & Repair Unit (APRU) Managers, Head of Industry and the UK Head of Lean Continuous Improvement – and your fingerprints will be on the culture, not just the metrics.
Responsibilities
* Lead and execute transformation activities that elevate efficiency and margins
* Train, coach and develop the Industry team for process optimisation
* Analyse and plan improvements aligned to Group strategy Thales Towards 2030
* Facilitate a cultural shift towards Lean agility and operational excellence
* Ensure Lean Continuous Improvement implementation with a structured, measurable approach
* Strategically plan and coordinate all Lean activities across your APRU
Success is measured
* Delivery (OTDIF), Quality (FPTY) and Cost (UPC) improvements
* Advancement of Lean maturity on‑site
* Deployment of the Thales Industry Operating Model (TIOM)
* Lean certification targets achieved within 24 months
* Proactive Lean activity engagement across all functions
Qualifications
* Proven experience in Lean manufacturing and strong knowledge of Lean tools and practices in general – Lean Six Sigma, Green Belt, Back Belt – or equivalent hard‑won experience
* Exceptional problem‑solving and analytical skills
* Real fluency and expertise in Lean tools: VSM, 5S, Flow improvement techniques, Visual Management
* Problem‑solving frameworks as daily habits, not slide content
* Proven success in low‑volume, bespoke manufacturing environments
* Demonstrated ability to lead and influence at every level, from production cells to cross‑functional teams including stakeholders at all levels
* A builder's mindset: you leave capability behind, not dependency
* Experience with Oracle, iObeya, PowerBI, Minitab or MES systems is a plus
Benefits
* 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
* Pension scheme and life cover
* 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
* 24 hours per annum paid volunteering
* Gym membership discounts and employee discount schemes
* Private medical insurance (optional)
* Cycle to work schemes
* Employee discounts and paid volunteering day
* Stocks and shares
* Annual bonus (depending on role)
Equal Opportunities
At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all.
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