Site Operations Excellence Leader

Implements tactical process improvement goals that drive efficiency, scalability, and innovation across business functions. Contributes significantly to the achievement of strategic business objectives by leading efforts in workflow optimization, automation, and operational risk reduction. Manages large process improvement projects and/or processes, overseeing initiatives such as enterprise-wide process standardization, advanced workflow redesigns, and compliance-driven business improvements. Directs the activities of others within projects, ensuring alignment with best practices, organizational goals, and industry benchmarks. Works on complex problems requiring an in-depth evaluation of multiple variable factors, including resource allocation, regulatory adherence, and technology integrations. Adapts precedents and may make departures from traditional approaches to develop innovative solutions that streamline operations and enhance productivity. Communicates with and influences senior management, providing insights into process optimization strategies, automation frameworks, and efficiency-driven cost reductions. Enhances relationships and networks with senior internal and external partners who may not be familiar with process improvement methodologies, often requiring persuasive communication to align stakeholders with strategic objectives.

Site Operational Excellence Manager

Location: Hillegom, The Netherlands
Contract: 1-year fixed-term contract with the intention to convert to a permanent position

Ready to make a real impact?

Do you get excited by finding smarter ways of working, eliminating waste, and turning complex operational challenges into measurable business results? Are you the type of person who walks through a site and immediately spots opportunities for improvement?

We're looking for a Site Operational Excellence Manager to drive continuous improvement initiatives across our Hillegom site. This is a highly visible position where your ideas won't just end up in PowerPoint presentations. You'll lead projects from concept through execution and deliver tangible improvements that enhance productivity, quality, customer service, and profitability.

If you're passionate about Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and building a culture of operational excellence, we'd love to hear from you.

 

What you'll be doing

As Site Operational Excellence Manager, you'll partner with teams across the site to identify opportunities, lead improvement projects, and deliver sustainable business results.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Driving operational excellence initiatives across Procurement, Production, Quality, Planning, Warehousing, and Logistics
• Applying Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies to eliminate waste and improve efficiency
• Analysing processes and identifying opportunities to improve productivity, quality, capacity, inventory management, and customer satisfaction
• Leading projects from idea generation through implementation and long-term sustainment
• Influencing and engaging stakeholders at all levels of the organisation
• Tracking project performance, savings, and operational impact using defined KPIs
• Acting as a change champion and helping build a culture of continuous improvement throughout the site

 

What we're looking for

You may be the ideal candidate if you have:

• Strong practical experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
• A solid understanding of manufacturing and order fulfilment processes within pharmaceutical, medical device, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments
• A proven history of delivering meaningful operational improvements and cost-saving initiatives
• Excellent project management and stakeholder management skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• The ability to influence teams, drive engagement, and implement change without direct authority
• A hands-on approach and a passion for making things work better every day

 

How success is measured

In this role, you'll be expected to deliver measurable and sustainable improvements across the business, including:

• Significant annual cost savings and operational efficiencies
• Improvements in productivity, quality, inventory levels, lead times, and customer service performance
• Successful implementation and long-term sustainment of continuous improvement initiatives
• Creation of a stronger culture of operational excellence across the site

 

What's on offer?

• A unique opportunity to influence and improve an entire manufacturing site
• High visibility and direct impact on business performance
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• The opportunity to shape long-term operational excellence strategy
• 1-year contract with a strong intention to convert to a permanent role based on performance and business needs

 

Are you ready to leave a lasting mark?

If you're someone who doesn't settle for "the way we've always done it" and thrives on delivering measurable improvements, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build a smarter, leaner, and more efficient future in Hillegom.

#LI-Onsite

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
 
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
 
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

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