A global industrial manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Transformation Program Lead to act as a strategic right hand to the executive responsible for enterprise transformation initiatives.
This individual will play a critical role in driving operational transformation initiatives and supporting post-acquisition integration efforts across a global footprint. The role requires a highly independent leader capable of managing complex programs, coordinating cross-functional stakeholders, and ensuring execution of multiple operational improvement initiatives.
The position is ideal for a hands-on transformation leader with deep operational expertise in discrete manufacturing environments, particularly in areas such as manufacturing footprint optimization, operational improvement, and strategic sourcing.
Key Responsibilities
Transformation Program Leadership
Own and drive a portfolio of 10+ ongoing transformation initiatives
across the organization.
Maintain momentum on legacy operational improvement programs while leadership focuses on commercial strategy development.
Track progress, resolve roadblocks, and ensure delivery against operational and financial objectives.
Operational Transformation
Lead initiatives related to:
Manufacturing footprint optimization and facility rationalization
Lean manufacturing and plant-level operational improvements
Strategic sourcing and procurement optimization
Gross margin improvement programs
Legal entity and organizational structure rationalization
Post-Acquisition Integration Support
Support targeted phases of integration following a planned acquisition.
Assist with integration planning and execution while maintaining operational continuity.
Help coordinate cross-functional workstreams across operations, engineering, and corporate functions.
Operational Execution
Lead execution of early operational initiatives including
manufacturing footprint changes and facility transitions.
Coordinate activities between plants, leadership teams, and corporate stakeholders.
Identify operational efficiencies and scalable improvement opportunities across the global footprint.
Stakeholder Management
Partner closely with senior leadership and functional heads.
Build relationships across operations, engineering, procurement, and regional leadership teams.
Operate as a trusted advisor and sounding board for the transformation leader.
Candidate Profile
Required Experience
10–15+ years of experience in operational transformation within industrial or discrete manufacturing environments
Proven experience leading large-scale operational improvement or transformation programs
Strong background in areas such as:
Manufacturing footprint strategy
Plant optimization or rationalization
Lean operations
Strategic sourcing or cost transformation
Experience supporting post-merger integration or complex enterprise change initiatives preferred
Leadership Capabilities
Ability to operate independently with minimal oversight
Strong program management and execution capabilities
Comfortable working in highly ambiguous, evolving environments
Excellent stakeholder management across senior leadership and operational teams
Strategic thinker with hands-on execution mindset
Travel Requirements
Significant travel expected across North America, Europe, and Asia to support operational initiatives and plant-level programs.
Ideal Candidate Traits
“Swiss Army knife” transformation leader with broad operational experience and deep operational expertise
Comfortable balancing strategic thinking and operational execution
Strong communicator capable of aligning diverse stakeholder groups
Pragmatic, solutions-oriented, and highly adaptable