Site Lean Leader - Cheltenham

We are actively hiring for a Site Lean Leader for our facility in Cheltenham. In this role you will partner with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to lead a site-wide lean transformation, driving continuous improvement across operations. This role will champion strategy deployment, leading model plant initiatives that support strategy deployment (Hoshin Kanri), facilitating structured problem-solving, conducting value stream analyses, and organizing Shingijutsu / GE Kaizen events. You will also coach and develop team members and business leaders on GE’s Daily Management, Standardised Work, and other Lean Operating model principles. All activities will be directed toward improving the site’s True North metrics in Safety, Quality, Customer Delivery, and Cost.

Lean Transformation & Strategy Deployment

• Partner with the Senior Leadership Team to define and execute the site lean transformation roadmap aligned to business strategy and True North metrics.
• Lead model area/model plant efforts to demonstrate best-in-class lean practices and support business Hoshin Kanri (strategy deployment).
• Establish, implement, and sustain strategies, programs, and practices that drive adoption of the lean business system across the facility.

Flight Deck & Daily Management

• Manage and mature the implementation of GE's Lean management system (Flight Deck), including strategy deployment, value stream activities, daily management, and supporting architecture/infrastructure.
• Coach leaders and teams in Daily Management, Standardized Work, visual management, and problem-solving routines to embed lean into day-to-day operations.
• Ensure lean activities are directly connected to site-level SQDC metrics and support both short-term and long-term performance goals.

Problem Solving, Kaizen & Continuous Improvement

• Plan, facilitate, and follow up on problem-solving activities and Kaizen events (including Shingijutsu / GE Kaizen) aligned to critical site metrics and business priorities.
• Lead value stream mapping and analysis to identify waste, define future-state designs, and prioritize improvement initiatives.
• Act as a change agent in implementing demand flow and other lean methodologies to improve throughput, reduce waste, and stabilize processes.
• Lead cross-functional projects with manufacturing and support teams to meet EHS, production, quality, inventory, and cost-savings objectives.

Coaching, Training & Capability Building

• Facilitate, train, and coach employees at all levels in lean principles, tools, and mindset.
• Assess capability gaps in lean knowledge and behaviours, and address them through course development, training delivery, and on-the-job coaching.
• Support operating leaders in becoming lean leaders, building their capability to lead Daily Management, problem solving, and continuous improvement within their areas.

Stakeholder Partnership & External Interfaces

• Partner with operating leaders and cross-functional teams to identify, prioritize, and execute continuous improvement opportunities within the site.
• Collaborate with suppliers, OEMs, and internal stakeholders to ensure processes and technologies are positioned for current and future success and aligned to lean principles.
• Champion change across the organization, bringing new ideas, motivation, and positive support to all levels of the team to foster a strong lean culture.

Core Focus (SQDC)

• Safety: Ensure that all lean initiatives support a strong EHS culture and reduce risk in processes and work environments.
• Quality: Drive improvements that enhance process capability, reduce defects, and strengthen product quality.
• Delivery: Improve flow and stability to meet or exceed customer delivery commitments.
• Cost: Eliminate waste, optimise resources, and deliver sustainable cost improvements across operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• Master’s degree or MBA is a plus.
• Formal lean/continuous improvement certification (e.g., Lean Practitioner, Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt) is highly desirable.

Experience

• Significant experience in a manufacturing or operations environment.
• Proven track record leading lean or continuous improvement initiatives with measurable impact on Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost.
• Experience facilitating Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and structured problem solving.
• Prior responsibility for implementing or sustaining a lean management system (Daily Management, Standard Work, visual management, tiered meetings, etc.).
• Experience working closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships at all levels of the organisation and unite people to work collaboratively and cohesively.

Flexible Working

GE supports and encourages flexible working arrangements, where possible, and recognises the benefits to employees of having a positive work-life balance.

Total Reward

At GE Aerospace we understand the importance of Total Reward. Our flexible benefits plan, called FlexChoice, gives you freedom, choice and flexibility in the way you receive your benefits, as well as giving you the opportunity to make savings where possible.

Security Clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. Please note that in the event that BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may not be eligible for the role and/or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security.

Right to Work

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, under the applicable UK immigration rules as may be in place from time to time, it may be that candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK may not be appointed to a post if a suitably qualified, experienced and skilled candidate who does not require sponsorship is available to take up the post.