At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive Lean strategy globally and deliver measurable performance improvements.
- Company: Hitachi Energy, a leader in electrification and global transformation.
- Benefits: Flexible location, international travel, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on diversity and teamwork.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-impact transformation programme and influence global Lean practices.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in Lean/Continuous Improvement with a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Opportunity
Hitachi Energy is accelerating the transition to electrification. As part of our Scale to Potential journey, we are strengthening Lean and Continuous Improvement across our Global Product Group – Grid, Power Quality Solutions & Service (GPQSS). As the Lean Master – Continuous Improvement, you will drive the definition, deployment and sustainability of Lean strategy globally. This role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on execution across a matrix organisation, delivering measurable performance improvements and supporting business transformation. This is a global role (40–50% travel) and an individual contributor without direct management reports.
Responsibilities
- Define and continuously improve the Lean and Continuous Improvement strategy at Global Product Group level
- Deploy strategy using Hoshin Kanri, ensuring alignment between business priorities, CI initiatives and KPIs
- Translate strategy into data‑driven improvement portfolios using Lean‑to‑Scale principles
- Lead Lean maturity and baseline assessments, converting findings into structured transformation plans
- Drive Lean deployment across operations, engineering, project execution and support functions
- Deliver value stream improvements focused on lead time, flow, productivity and cost efficiency
- Facilitate and coach Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kaizen and waste elimination activities
- Act as a change leader, influencing stakeholders without direct authority across a global matrix
- Deliver Lean training and capability building across all organisational levels (shop‑floor to senior leadership)
- Build strong partnerships through effective communication, empathy and cross‑cultural collaboration
Qualifications
- Degree in Engineering or related discipline
- Minimum 10+ years’ relevant experience in Lean / Continuous Improvement within complex, global organisations
- Proven experience in strategy deployment (Hoshin Kanri or similar frameworks)
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification (required)
- Strong analytical and data‑driven mindset with ability to translate insights into action
- Demonstrated experience in coaching, influencing and leading cultural change
- Solid understanding of operational excellence (quality, delivery, cost, productivity)
- Experience within industrial, engineering, project‑based or energy environments
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively across cultures
- Fluent in English; additional languages are an advantage
Key Behaviours
- Proactive and results‑oriented, with a positive, “can‑do” mindset
- Change‑positive, comfortable operating in dynamic environments
- Collaborative team player, willing to support across teams and priorities
- Flexible and adaptable, open to hands‑on involvement where needed
- Strong people‑first approach, building trust and engagement at all levels
What’s in it for you
- Opportunity to contribute to a high‑impact global transformation programme
- Visible role influencing how Lean is embedded and scaled globally
- Exposure to cross‑functional teams and senior stakeholders internationally
- A collaborative environment where diversity and teamwork drive performance
- Ongoing learning, development and career growth opportunities within Hitachi Energy
Additional information
- Location: Global – flexible within Europe / Americas
- Travel: Approximately 40–50% international travel required
Apply now. Join us and support how we continuously improve, scale and deliver performance across Hitachi Energy.
Global Continuous Improvement Lean Master - Grid, Power Quality Solutions & Service in Birmingham employer: Hitachi Energy
Hitachi Energy is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters diversity and teamwork. As a Global Continuous Improvement Lean Master, you will play a pivotal role in driving high-impact transformation initiatives while enjoying ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a focus on employee engagement and a strong people-first approach, Hitachi Energy empowers its workforce to thrive in a global setting, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Continuous Improvement Lean Master - Grid, Power Quality Solutions & Service in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to Lean and Continuous Improvement. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it’s all about showing how you’ve made an impact!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When discussing your experience, focus on specific projects where you drove Lean initiatives and the measurable results you achieved. Numbers speak volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Continuous Improvement Lean Master - Grid, Power Quality Solutions & Service in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Lean Master role. Highlight your experience in Lean and Continuous Improvement, especially any strategic leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about Lean and Continuous Improvement. Share specific examples of how you've driven change in previous roles and how you can contribute to our global transformation.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires a strong analytical mindset, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive improvements. Mention any tools or methodologies you've employed, like Hoshin Kanri or Lean Six Sigma.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people and shows us you're serious about joining our team at Hitachi Energy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hitachi Energy
✨Know Your Lean Principles
Make sure you brush up on your Lean and Continuous Improvement principles before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these concepts in previous roles, especially in complex, global organisations. This will show that you understand the core of what the role entails.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to drive change without direct authority. Think of specific examples where you've successfully influenced stakeholders or led a transformation initiative, and be prepared to explain your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since this role requires a strong analytical mindset, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive improvements. Discuss any tools or methodologies you've employed, like Hoshin Kanri or Value Stream Mapping, to translate insights into actionable strategies.
✨Emphasise Communication and Collaboration
Given the global nature of the role, highlight your experience in cross-cultural collaboration and effective communication. Share instances where you've built strong partnerships across teams and how you’ve adapted your approach to different cultural contexts.