Operational Excellence Leader (Lean Manufacturing) at Foresight Technologies – Tempe, Arizona

We are seeking an Operational Excellence Leader to drive scalable operational performance through Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and disciplined execution. This role focuses on transforming operational processes, strengthening performance culture, and building systems that support sustainable growth.

The ideal candidate blends strategic perspective with hands-on Lean implementation experience and is comfortable influencing leaders, coaching teams, and delivering measurable operational gains.

Operational Transformation

• Lead initiatives that improve efficiency, scalability, and operational consistency across the organization.
• Partner with leadership to align operational priorities with business growth objectives.
• Establish performance metrics, reporting cadence, and accountability structures.

Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

• Implement Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, Kaizen, and SMED.
• Drive waste elimination, process flow optimization, and variation reduction.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving using A3, DMAIC, 5-Why, and similar methodologies.
• Deliver measurable improvements in productivity, quality, cost, and delivery performance.

Process Optimization & Execution

• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement sustainable solutions.
• Support standardization of processes across manufacturing and operational functions.
• Use data analytics and KPIs to guide decision-making and performance improvement.

Culture & Capability Building

• Coach leaders and teams on Lean principles and continuous improvement behaviors.
• Foster a proactive operational culture focused on accountability, safety, and quality.
• Develop internal CI capability through mentoring and training.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Significant operational experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Strong analytical, facilitation, and change leadership skills.
• Ability to influence without formal authority across multiple functions.

Preferred

• Lean or Six Sigma certification.
• Experience scaling operations during growth phases.
• Exposure to ERP/MRP systems and operational data analytics.
• Multi-site manufacturing experience.

Core Competencies

• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong operational and financial acumen
• Effective cross-functional collaboration
• Change leadership and cultural influence
• Data-driven decision-making
• Results-oriented execution

Success Indicators

• Improved operational efficiency and throughput
• Reduction in waste, rework, and lead times
• Stronger on-time delivery and quality metrics
• Increased workforce engagement in CI initiatives
• Sustainable Lean systems embedded in daily operations

Foresight Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, and/or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, Vietnam Era and/or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law(s).Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.