386 Lean jobs in the United Kingdom

• Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Utilize Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies (e.g., DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, 5S) to develop and implement solutions.
• Collect, interpret, and report on process performance data to track progress and measure the impact of implemented changes.
• Lead cross-functional teams in process improvement projects, fostering collaboration and buy-in.
• Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices.
• Train and mentor operational staff on Lean Six Sigma principles and process improvement techniques.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and emerging technologies in process optimization.
• Prepare regular reports for management on project status, key performance indicators (KPIs), and anticipated benefits.
• Facilitate workshops and brainstorming sessions to generate innovative solutions.

• Degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in process improvement, manufacturing operations, or industrial engineering.
• Certification as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt is required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Proficiency in process mapping tools and statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab).
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a hybrid work environment.
• Experience in (Specify a relevant industry, e.g., automotive, aerospace, consumer goods) manufacturing is highly desirable.
• Project management experience is a plus.

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing engineering role.
• Strong knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred).
• Experience with process improvement tools such as VSM, Kaizen, Poka-Yoke, and SPC.
• Proficiency in CAD software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead projects and work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience in the relevant industry sector (e.g., automotive, aerospace, medical devices) is a plus.

We are seeking a highly skilled and security-cleared Process Engineer  to join our team within the Defence sector. Based in either Stevenage or Bolton , this role focuses on driving operational excellence through process analysis, design, and continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will be instrumental in enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and defence regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze, design, and optimize manufacturing and operational processes to improve performance and reduce costs.
• Lead and support Lean Six Sigma  projects to deliver measurable improvements across production and support functions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, and supply chain to implement process enhancements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, and training materials.
• Monitor process performance using KPIs and data analytics, and present findings to stakeholders.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to resolve process-related issues.
• Ensure all process changes comply with defence sector regulations, safety standards, and quality requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in process engineering or continuous improvement roles, ideally within a regulated industry.
• Current SC (Security Check) Clearance  is mandatory.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience in data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in process mapping tools and data analysis software.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-security, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the Defence , aerospace, or other highly regulated sectors.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and digital manufacturing tools.
• Knowledge of relevant standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or defence-specific quality frameworks.

Competitive Rates Outside IR- 35

We are seeking a highly skilled and security-cleared Process Engineer  to join our team within the Defence sector. Based in either Stevenage or Bolton , this role focuses on driving operational excellence through process analysis, design, and continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will be instrumental in enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and defence regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze, design, and optimize manufacturing and operational processes to improve performance and reduce costs.
• Lead and support Lean Six Sigma  projects to deliver measurable improvements across production and support functions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, and supply chain to implement process enhancements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, and training materials.
• Monitor process performance using KPIs and data analytics, and present findings to stakeholders.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to resolve process-related issues.
• Ensure all process changes comply with defence sector regulations, safety standards, and quality requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in process engineering or continuous improvement roles, ideally within a regulated industry.
• Current SC (Security Check) Clearance  is mandatory.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience in data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in process mapping tools and data analysis software.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-security, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the Defence , aerospace, or other highly regulated sectors.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and digital manufacturing tools.
• Knowledge of relevant standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, or defence-specific quality frameworks.

Competitive Rates Outside IR- 35

• Lead and manage complex process improvement projects using Lean Six Sigma methodologies (DMAIC, DMADV).
• Conduct detailed analysis of manufacturing and operational processes to identify bottlenecks, waste, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement process optimization strategies, including workflow redesign, automation integration, and waste reduction initiatives.
• Utilize statistical tools and software to analyze data, quantify improvements, and validate solutions.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions on Lean Six Sigma principles and continuous improvement tools.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure successful project implementation and sustainability.
• Develop and maintain performance metrics (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of implemented changes.
• Mentor and coach team members on problem-solving techniques and process improvement best practices.
• Present project findings, recommendations, and results to senior management.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in process engineering and automation.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process improvement, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma projects.
• Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma.
• Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects from conception to completion.
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and process simulation tools.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to drive change and achieve measurable results in an industrial setting.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote environment.

Pacific International Recruitment is an exclusive executive search firm with over 25 years of experience in recruiting specialists and executives. With our headquarters in London and additional offices in Düsseldorf and Philadelphia, we provide targeted support to our clients and candidates in EMEA and the US.

Our client is a global leader in manufacturing, with deep industrial roots and a proud European heritage. As part of an ambitious transformation to strengthen their position in circular economy innovation, they are seeking a dynamic and hands-on change agent — someone who thrives in transformation environments and is capable of driving measurable impact across a complex, global organization. This individual will play a pivotal role in advancing operational excellence and enabling future growth across the company’s European manufacturing footprint, building on a legacy of excellence in production

Key responsibilities:

• Deploy strategy across the region, aligning with business and operational goals
• Lead Continuous Improvement initiatives (Lean, Kaizen, etc.) to deliver cost savings, scrap reduction, and productivity gains
• Conduct audits, assess maturity, close gaps, and drive sustainable improvement actions
• Build capability by training, coaching, and mentoring plant leaders, fostering a culture of Lean thinking
• Collaborate across plants and functions to standardize practices, track performance, and share best practices for regional learning

Your profile :

• Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with several years of manufacturing experience in a fast-paced environment
• Deep knowledge of Lean methodologies (Six Sigma certification a plus) and hands-on experience leading improvement projects
• Strong communication skills with the ability to coach, influence, and engage stakeholders at all levels
• Pragmatic, resilient, and comfortable working across cultures, ambiguity, and high-pressure situations
• Willing to travel up to 50%

If you’re passionate about making an impact, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy wearing multiple hats, we’d love to receive your CV!

For further information on this position and for a confidential discussion about your career please contact:

Executive Search Consultant

Rania Johnson

Direct:

Email:

About Pacific International Executive Search:

Pacific International, a globally recognized retained executive search firm, is dedicated to empowering Fortune 500, FTSE 100, and high-growth enterprises in building exceptional C-suite, senior-level, and strategic leadership teams while championing diversity and inclusion. Our adaptability, agility, and forward-thinking ethos distinguish us in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Since 1997, we have been dedicated to building lasting client partnerships based on trust and reliability, and a proven track record of successful C-suite and mid- to senior-level leadership project delivery across many key industries globally.

Diversity Statement:

At Pacific International, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to these values is unwavering and we proudly champion diversity on behalf of our clients in every Executive Search mandate we undertake. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. In pursuit of these objectives, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Lean Manufacturing Consultant (Permanent, Full-Time)

Location: UK-wide (Client-facing role. UK travel required 4 nights per week)

Reference: 1025

Contact:

Our established Lean consultancy client is committed to helping organisations achieve world-class manufacturing performance through high-impact Lean transformation services. By integrating strategic guidance with hands-on coaching and mentoring, they deliver sustainable, lasting change across complex operations.

Due to continued growth and client demand, our client is seeking to appoint a permanent, full-time Lean Manufacturing Consultant / Senior Operations Leader to lead enterprise-wide Lean transformations, working with high-profile clients in advanced manufacturing sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of enterprise-wide Lean operating systems.
• Partner with senior stakeholders (CEO, MD level) to align business strategy with operational execution.
• Deliver coaching, mentoring, and training to embed Lean principles at every level of the organisation.
• Drive cultural and behavioural change to sustain operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Extensive senior operations or plant leadership experience with a proven ability to drive strategic change and bottom-line results.
• Deep expertise in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement, ideally within aerospace, automotive, or similar high-complexity industries.
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale Lean transformation programmes and coaching leadership teams.
• Exceptional leadership, influencing, and communication skills with a hands-on, results-driven approach.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected consultancy and make a tangible impact with clients undergoing transformational change. In return, you will receive a competitive salary package, ongoing professional development, and the chance to shape Lean excellence across top-tier industrial operations.

Interested? Send your CV and salary expectations to Lean Executives at: quoting reference 1025 .

This role requires flexibility and mobility to travel across the UK and Europe in line with client and business needs. There is the potential you may be required to work away from home Monday to Friday, which may include frequent overnight stays. Applicants must be fully comfortable with travel as a core part of the role.