Site Continuous Improvement Leader

Job Description

Job Description

About GKN Automotive

GKN Automotive is a global leader in eDrive technologies and driveline systems, shaping the future of mobility. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, we deliver cutting-edge solutions for the automotive industry worldwide. Join our team and be part of a company that values continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional growth.

The Site Continuous Improvement Lead will be responsible for standardizing processes across both plants , driving cost reduction , production optimization , and machining productivity improvements . This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to influence change across cross-functional teams.

• Lead Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence initiatives to standardize processes and optimize production.
• Drive cost reduction projects , machining productivity improvements , and changeover time reduction (from 8–12 hours).
• Implement Lean tools and methodologies, including Kaizen , line balancing , and standardization .
• Conduct shop floor analysis to identify improvement opportunities and propose data-driven solutions.
• Act as a hands-on leader , demonstrating measurable impact on processes and influencing teams positively.
• Communicate changes effectively and justify improvements with solid technical and financial evidence.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration across operational and leadership teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and support project management activities .
• Travel up to 10% for cross-plant interactions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or related).
• Minimum 10 years of experience in the automotive industry , specifically in manufacturing assembly or machining .
• Proven experience in Lean Manufacturing , Continuous Improvement , and Operational Excellence Systems (OMS) .
• Six Sigma certification required.
• Strong background in cycle time optimization , changeover reduction , and overtime reduction .
• Experience with ePowertrain or driveline assembly/machining preferred.
• Project management experience ; prior management role in manufacturing is a plus.
• Financial acumen to evaluate cost-saving initiatives and ROI.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Project).
• Advanced English communication skills.

• Leadership and team management.
• Strategic and critical thinking.
• Decision-making and performance management.
• Strong communication skills.
• High tolerance for frustration and ambiguity.

You should be proficient in:

• Project Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• Experience in a Manufacturing Environment