Head of Operational Excellence (Lean & Quality & EHSE)

Location: Chemnitz, Germany About the Role We are seeking a results-oriented, hands-on leader to take on the role of Head of Operational Excellence: Lean & Quality & EHSE. This role combines Lean Management implementation, strategic quality leadership, and responsibility for Environment, Health, Safety & Environment (EHSE). You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, process discipline, and uncompromising safety and sustainability standards across both manufacturing and administrative processes. Reporting directly to the COO/CEO, you will play a key role in shaping the company’s operational transformation and ensuring compliance with international EHSE standards. About the Client Our client is a respected European brand in enamel-coated architectural panels and glass-fused-to-steel tanks and digestors. Its solutions are valued for their durability, aesthetic quality, and performance in harsh conditions: Architectural Panels – For tunnels, train stations, subways, and building facades, known for fire resistance, low maintenance, and long-term color retention. Storage Tanks – For drinking water, wastewater, agricultural grain, and animal feed storage, offering corrosion resistance and longevity. Biogas Digestors – For renewable energy production from organic waste and agricultural residues, trusted for gas tightness and chemical durability. The brand is now supported by a global industrial group with a successful track record of rebuilding and scaling engineering businesses in both Germany and India. With access to capital, leadership depth, and market access, the new ownership is committed to preserving the brand’s legacy while driving operational modernization. Key Responsibilities OPEX: Lean &Quality Lead the Opex (Lean and Quality) Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of an Integrated Management System (IMS) for Quality, Operational Excellence, and EHSE. Drive Lean initiatives across production and office functions (value stream mapping, 5S, standard work, visual management, PDCA /A3s). Develop and implement OPEX strategies to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance cross-functional collaboration. Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality issues; manage customer complaints and implement preventive measures. Foster a culture of quality ownership and continuous improvement across all levels of the organization. Coach and lead by example to develop employees in Lean, and quality tools; lead training and capability-building initiatives. EHSE Ensure compliance with ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (occupational health & safety), and ISO 50001 (energy management). Establish and monitor EHSE policies and procedures to safeguard employees, customers, and the environment. Drive proactive risk assessments, hazard identification, and preventive safety measures. Promote sustainability initiatives and energy efficiency in line with corporate responsibility goals. Lead EHSE team, audits, incident investigations, and corrective actions. Build a strong safety culture with visible leadership and hands-on engagement on the shop floor. Leadership Manage and develop a small, high-impact Quality, OPEX & EHSE team. Prepare and present performance reports to senior leadership. Act as a change agent, ensuring Lean and EHSE principles are embedded in daily operations. Requirements 5–7 years of leadership experience in quality, operational excellence, and EHSE within German industrial manufacturing. Proven track record in Lean Management, Kaizen, Six Sigma or similar methodologies – ideally certified (Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt). Strong knowledge of ISO standards: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001. Experience in metal fabrication, coatings, tanks, or building materials is a plus. Hands-on mentality, analytical thinking, and structured problem-solving approach. High safety and environmental awareness; strong communication and coaching skills. High personal ownership, integrity, and ability to lead by example. Benefits Be at the forefront of restoring a legacy industrial brand with technical depth and global reputation. Drive Lean transformation, quality excellence, and EHSE leadership across a business with strong potential and international reach. Operate with autonomy, clarity, and full support from a respected international parent company. Help shape the company’s next chapter—not as a caretaker, but as a builder and change agent. Attractive compensation aligned to responsibility and results.