Lean Manager

Company Electric Thermal SolutionsDepartment Global SupplyLocation Ogden (Utah) or Durex (Chicago) with regular travelReports to: European Manufacturing Engineering ManagerDate July 2026Who we are ETS (Electric Thermal Solutions) is uniquely positioned to enable the energy transition and decarbonization journey of our customers. Delivering heating and temperature solutions under four strong brands – Chromalox, Vulcanic, Durex Industries and Thermocoax worldwide.Our expertise and innovative technologies enable us to deliver efficient, reliable, and sustainable electric thermal solutions that optimize processes, increase productivity, and ensure the highest levels of safety and quality. Spirax Group is a FTSE100 and FTSE4Good multi-national industrial engineering Group with expertise in the control and management of steam, electric thermal solutions, peristaltic pumping and associated fluid technologies.Our Purpose, supported by our inclusive culture and Values, unites us, guides our decisions, and inspires us everywhere that we operate. We support our colleagues to make their difference for each other as well as customers, communities, suppliers, our planet and shareholders by creating a truly equitable working environment where everyone feels included.Purpose of the RoleRole OverviewThis role is responsible for driving Continuous Improvement (CI) and developing the Operational Excellence (OpEx) framework across the Americas. The position will play a key role in embedding Lean principles, identifying process improvement opportunities, and delivering measurable operational performance gains across manufacturing sites.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the development and deployment of the Operational Excellence framework across Americas sites, ensuring alignment with global standardsApply strong Lean principles to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and improve process performanceDeliver and support GOLD-level Continuous Improvement activities in line with internal CI standards, with ongoing development toward higher levelsFacilitate and lead CI workshops (e.g., Kaizen, value stream mapping, root cause problem solving) to drive sustainable improvementsIdentify, prioritize, and execute process improvement initiatives across manufacturing and support functionsProvide hands-on support to sites, including the ability to lead or support changeover (SMED) improvement exercises where requiredCoach and train site teams in Lean tools and CI methodologies to build internal capabilityCollaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, quality, supply chain) to deliver end-to-end improvementsSupport standardization and best practice sharing across sitesOwn the CI savings delivery for the ETS Americas, track and validate savings against forecasted targets.Participate in weekly meetings with the Manufacturing Engineering Manager to review:CI Updates: Progress on savings, project status, and new opportunities.OPEX Maturity: Site-level progress and training needs.Skills & ExperienceStrong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and tools (e.g., SMED, 5S, VSM, root cause analysis, standard work)Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvements in a manufacturing environmentExperience leading CI workshops and engaging cross-functional teamsAbility to operate at a GOLD level within CI standards, with a mindset for continuous developmentHands-on, practical approach with the ability to work both strategically and on the shop floorStrong communication and stakeholder engagement skillsKey AttributesProactive and results-driven with a strong continuous improvement mindsetComfortable working across multiple sites and culturesAble to balance strategic framework development with hands-on executionStrong problem-solving capability with attention to detailStrong communication skillsBilingual preferred (Spanish, French, German)DevelopmentOpportunity to progress to higher levels within the CI framework through training and practical applicationExposure to global Operational Excellence initiatives and best practicesAdditional NotesThe role requires flexibility to support site-based improvement activities, including hands-on involvement in manufacturing processes where neededTravel within the Americas is required (1-2 times/month)Our Values:The successful candidate will always consider the safety and wellbeing of others. They will look to build relationships across the business, working collaboratively, sharing expertise and helping others. They will seek excellence in all they do, and operate with integrity and respect whilst always putting the customer first.