Responsibilities / Tasks
The Senior Manager Operational Transformation & Excellence (f/m/d) is a key driver of GEA’s operational transformation agenda across
global manufacturing sites. Embedded in Nutrition Plant Engineering (NPE) within the Operations Strategy & Execution team, the
role integrates four core levers of transformation.
1. Performance Management (KPI governance, transparency, standards)
· Define and govern the global transformation framework across KPIs, reporting, standards, and review routines.
· Ensure transparency on operational performance and enable data-driven decision-making across regions and sites.
· Facilitate transformation reviews and benchmark performance to identify opportunities for improvement.
2. Lean & Continuous Improvement (process excellence, capability building, waste reduction)
· Develop Lean standards, methodologies, and playbooks to strengthen global operational maturity.
· Lead high-impact Lean initiatives and cross-functional process optimization workshops.
· Build Continuous Improvement capability through coaching, training, and cooperation with local site teams.
3. COGS Improvement Program (structured cost optimization)
· Own the structured COGS pipeline, including identification, prioritization, execution governance, and impact validation.
· Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to realize sustainable cost
improvements.
· Track progress, drive accountability, and report financial impacts to divisional leadership.
4. Quality Management Process Harmonization (standardized quality fundamentals and problem-solving)
· Harmonize and continuously improve key end-to-end Quality
· Management processes, tools, and KPIs across the global manufacturing network.
· Drive right-first-time performance by embedding structured root cause analysis, CAPA excellence, and standardized problem-solving routines into daily operations.
Your Profile / Qualifications
· Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Operations, Business Administration, or related field.
· Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent advanced OE certification required (or strong experience at this level).
· Several years in Operational Excellence, Lean, Continuous Improvement, Operational Transformation, or related roles.
· Proven track record leading multi-site transformation or OE programs in industrial/manufacturing environments.
· Strong experience with KPI frameworks, COGS improvement, quality process standardization, and Lean systems deployment.
· Experience engaging senior stakeholders and enabling large-scale behavior and process change.
· Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence without authority.
· Excellent facilitation, coaching, and change management capabilities.
· Ability to simplify complexity and translate insights into actionable transformation plans.
· Strong analytics and problem-solving skills.
· Fluent in English; additional languages (e.g., German) beneficial.
· Willingness to travel internationally as needed.