Lean Manufacturing (VPS) and Digitalisation Manager

Valeo is seeking a Lean Manufacturing (VPS) and Digitalisation Manager to lead the implementation of Lean strategies and digital technologies across production areas. This role involves conducting process analysis, leading Kaizen events, deploying smart manufacturing solutions like IoT and MES, and ensuring data integrity. The manager will also work with Quality and Production teams to solve complex problems, improve productivity, and foster a continuous improvement culture.

Must Have

• Lead Lean strategy implementation (5S, TPM, SMED, Value Stream Mapping, Industrial Engineering, Kanban, Standard Work).
• Conduct Gemba walks and process analysis to identify waste.
• Lead Kaizen events and foster continuous improvement culture.
• Integrate digital technologies (IoT sensors, data analytics, MES/MOM systems, machine learning) to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Develop and deploy software solutions for shop floor applications.
• Manage selection, deployment, and integration of new digital tools and automated systems.
• Solve complex manufacturing problems using structured methodologies (PDCA, 8D, Fishbone analysis).
• Develop and implement strategies to reduce process variation and improve first-pass yield (FPY).
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Manufacturing, Computer Science, or related field).
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Proven expertise in deploying and sustaining Lean methodologies.
• 3+ years of experience in deploying digitalization projects (MES, SCADA, IoT) in manufacturing.
• Proficiency in at least one modern programming language (Python, C#, Java) or scripting for industrial automation.
• Deep, practical understanding of manufacturing operations (Production Acumen).
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and mentor junior staff (Leadership).
• Excellent analytical skills with a focus on root cause analysis and data-driven decision-making (Problem-Solving).
• Strong ability to communicate complex technical and process concepts.
• Comfortable managing projects that blend traditional process improvement with emerging technology (Adaptability).

Perks & Benefits

• Join one of the largest global innovative companies, with more than 20,000 engineers working in Research & Development.
• Work in a multi-cultural environment that values diversity and international collaboration.
• Opportunity for career growth with more than 100,000 colleagues in 31 countries.
• Be part of a business highly committed to limiting the environmental impact of its activities.
• Grow and thrive, setting the trend through advanced technologies for greener, safer, and smarter mobility.
• Opportunity to #Dare.Care.Share as part of a common culture.

1. Lean & Continuous Improvement Leadership

• Lead and champion the implementation of a comprehensive Lean strategy (e.g., 5S, TPM, SMED, Value Stream Mapping, Industrial Engineering, Kanban, Standard Work) across all production areas.
• Conduct hands-on Gemba walks and process analysis to identify waste and bottlenecks in current production flows.
• Lead Kaizen events and workshops, coaching local teams to develop a sustainable continuous improvement culture.
• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to productivity, OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), scrap reduction, and quality.

2. Digitalization and Smart Manufacturing Deployment

• Identify opportunities to integrate digital technologies (e.g. IoT sensors, data analytics, MES/MOM systems, machine learning) to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Hands-on development and deployment of software solutions, including programming, scripting, and system integration, for shop floor applications.
• Manage the selection, deployment, and integration of new digital tools and automated systems into the existing production environment.
• Ensure data integrity and establish robust reporting dashboards for real-time performance monitoring.
• Lead the site in driving best practice and facilitate the visual digital factory adoption.

3. Quality and Productivity Improvement

• Work directly with Quality and Production teams to solve complex manufacturing problems using structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g. PDCA, 8D, Fishbone analysis).
• Develop and implement strategies to reduce process variation and improve first-pass yield (FPY).
• Ensure successful transfer of new processes (Lean and Digital) from pilot to full production scale.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Education Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Manufacturing, Computer Science, or related field).
• Experience (Manufacturing) Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a high-volume manufacturing or production environment.
• Experience (Lean) Proven expertise in deploying and sustaining Lean methodologies.
• Experience (Digital) 3+ years of experience in deploying digitalization projects (e.g., MES, SCADA, IoT) in a manufacturing context.
• Technical Skills (Programming) Demonstrated proficiency in at least one modern programming language (e.g., Python, C#, Java) or scripting for industrial automation and data processing.

Core Competencies

• Production Acumen: Deep, practical understanding of manufacturing operations, capable of operating effectively on the production floor.
• Leadership: Ability to lead cross-functional teams and mentor junior staff in both Lean and Digital skills.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical skills with a focus on root cause analysis and data-driven decision-making.
• Communication: Strong ability to communicate complex technical and process concepts to all organizational levels, from operators to senior management.
• Adaptability: Comfortable managing projects that blend traditional process improvement with emerging technology.