Head of Lean Manufacturing

Role descriptionWe are looking for an experienced Lean Manager who will drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives within our production environment, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and long-term scalability of our manufacturing operations. By fostering engagement, empowering shopfloor teams, and embedding a culture of accountability, this role strengthens operational performance while safeguarding safety and regulatory standards.Your MissionTeam LeadershipLead and mentor production and cross-functional teams, building Lean capabilities and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.Empower employees at all levels to identify and implement improvements, ensuring that Lean thinking becomes part of everyday operations.Act as a change agent to promote accountability, problem-solving, and innovation across the shopfloor.Production & Operational ExcellenceSet strategic priorities for production efficiency, balancing cost, throughput, quality, and scalability.Define and monitor production KPIs (e.g., OEE, scrap rate, lead time) to track progress and deliver measurable improvements.Lead Lean transformation projects directly in production areas, using tools such as Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and Root Cause Analysis.Implement scalable processes and systems that increase manufacturing accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.Safety & ComplianceEnsure full compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across production operations.Integrate safety and compliance considerations into all Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to proactively manage risks.Stakeholder CollaborationCollaborate closely with production leadership, supply chain, and quality management to align on process improvements and strategic goals.Engage stakeholders at all levels—from senior management to frontline operators—to secure buy-in and drive sustainable cultural change.Minimum QualificationsMaster’s degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (Lean certification preferred).5+ years of experience in a related field, with at least 2 years focusing on Lean principles and Operational Excellence.2+ years of experience in managing teams, with a proven ability to lead and mentor diverse groups toward common goals.Demonstrated leadership and people management skills, with a track record of successfully driving cultural change.Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills with a data-driven approach to operational challenges.Deep knowledge of Lean methodologies such as Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma, and Value Stream Mapping.Strong digital capabilities, with experience using ERP systems and data analytics tools such as Power BI.Proficiency in both English and German (written and spoken) is required.Why you'll love working hereExciting tasks in an internationally operating, growing family business with flat hierarchiesFlexible working hours and a hybrid working model4 weeks remote work from other EU countries30 days paid vacation per yearSalary bands for a fair corporate cultureMonthly allowance of €50 for your BAVAnnual 360° feedback loops with clear promotion criteria and an individual career pathResponsibility from day one in a company that encourages personal responsibility and growthRelocation costs can be reimbursed on a pro rata basisRegular company events such as summer party, Christmas partyPaid team dinners or activities for each team twice a yearFree parking right outside the doorPerks and benefits: JobRad, subsidized lunch, subsidy for the Deutschlandticket, free language courses and discounted memberships at several gyms and for the WellpassFresh fruit, free drinks and snacks in the officeAbout usAt Arethia, we fuse our long-standing reputation with a continual push for progress. A rapidly expanding player in the flavour industry, Arethia specialises in delivering innovative taste solutions and co-creating products that consumers love. For more than 70 years, Arethia has been known for its close collaboration with customers and the highest quality standards. With over 250 employees spread across Germany, Switzerland, Dubai, and Indonesia, we aim to shape the future of flavours with a culture that values agility, transparency, and talent.