Job Purpose
The Continuous Improvement Lead will analyse transportation and 3rd party logistics processes to identify opportunities for standardization, optimization and cost efficiency. This role develops and implements improvement strategies that enhance service quality, productivity, and operational performance. Acting as a catalyst for change, the CI Lead drives cross‑functional initiatives that deliver measurable cost and service benefits across our network.
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
Main Responsibilities
* Develop and execute continuous improvement (CI) strategies and action plans aligned with organisational objectives with a strong focus on standardisation/harmonisation of processes.
* Lead and manage cross‑functional teams to identify, prioritise, and implement improvement initiatives.
* Provide leadership, coaching, and mentorship on CI principles, Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
* Analyse existing processes to identify inefficiencies, waste and improvement opportunities within transportation and 3PL operations.
* Apply Lean and Six Sigma tools such as process mapping, 5S and value stream mapping to drive operational excellence.
* Conduct root cause analyses and implement sustainable corrective actions.
* Monitor and report on key performance metrics and share progress to senior stakeholders.
* Champion a culture of continuous improvement, the need for value creation and promote engagement and best‑practice sharing across teams.
* Deliver CI training to enhance internal capability and promote ownership of improvement efforts.
* Lead change management processes to ensure smooth implementation of new initiatives and address resistance effectively.
Key Stakeholders
Internal: BU Logistics Lead, BU Transport Leads, BU Planning Leads, CoE Manufacturing, ISS Finance Center
Experience & Qualifications required
Must‑haves
* Proven proficiency in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies (Green or Black Belt preferred).
* Strong project and change management experience within logistics, transportation or 3PL operations in an international FMCG “make” environment.
* Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills with a data‑driven approach to decision‑making.
* Strategic leadership, clear communication and stakeholder‑management abilities across all organisational levels; capability to deal with ambiguity.
* Capability to create standard processes while appreciating and understanding local business‑unit complexities.
* Min 7‑10 years’ experience within an international logistics environment.
Nice‑to‑haves
* Coaching experience and the ability to build CI capability and a sense for standardisation across teams.
* Strong financial acumen for cost analysis and budget management.
* Experience working within a central team supporting independent, regionally‑driven business units.
Success Indicators / KPIs
* Transportation cost per kilometre, per drop, and per unit case/pallet shipped.
* Vehicle utilisation rate.
* On‑time in full (OTIF) performance.
* 3rd‑party logistics cost per pallet sold.
Team & Culture
The Centre of Excellence team is collaborative, data‑driven and highly supportive. We value self‑starters who can thrive in a dynamic environment without micromanagement. Success in this role requires adaptability, clear communication and the ability to work cross‑functionally to strengthen operational excellence in a complex, multinational setting.
Functional Technical Skills Required
* Business multifunctional knowledge.
* People leadership (indirect) and team engagement.
* Finance acumen.
Core Skills Preferred
* Good communication skills, assertiveness and negotiation skills.
* Conscientiousness, creativity in thought and action.
* Ability to drive process implementation in organisations.
* Strategic perspective and deduction of strategic objectives.
* Conflict resolution and organisational ability.
* Critical thinking and growth mindset.
* Leadership and influencing.
* Change management.
Travel Required
Yes – 30%
Language capability
English
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