Operational Excellence Lead

About the role

DS Smith is looking for an Operational Excellence Lead based in Logatec. You will play a key role in driving operational excellence, improving site performance and embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the deployment and ongoing development of the DS Smith Way Continuous Improvement programme at site level.
• Partner with central Operations Excellence teams to align improvement priorities and share best practices.
• Champion Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies in daily operations.
• Monitor and report site performance KPIs and lead the site's waste reduction strategy through data collection, analysis and performance monitoring.
• Provide technical expertise to improve controllable waste performance and reduce raw material consumption, including paper, starch and water.
• Develop and implement cross-functional improvement projects and support robust audit and process confirmation systems.
• Foster engagement and accountability, coach and mentor colleagues and deliver continuous improvement training.

Required profile

• Strong manufacturing experience in a production environment, preferably in a fast-paced industrial setting.
• Degree-level education; significant industrial experience is highly valued.
• Fluency in both Slovenian and English.
• Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent qualification preferred.

Required skills

• Good knowledge of continuous improvement tools, Lean methodologies and operational excellence practices.
• Experience with quality systems and root cause analysis.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to analyse, interpret and present data.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects and influencing change.

What we offer

• Permanent employment contract with a 6-month probationary period.
• Career opportunity with a global company known for its commitment to sustainability.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
• Professional development opportunities within an international organisation.