Operations Excellence Project Lead

Job description

As the Operational Excellence Lead, the prime objective is supporting the industrial areas & customers in operational excellence in the effective and consistent deployment of our operational excellence programme including all one Safran fundamentals.

The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this Job Description are indicative and may vary over time. Jobholders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, level and scope of the role. The focus being the deployment of the Industrial standards into the Industrial processes.


*Champion the Implementation of One Safran Project Management Standards by ensuring consistent use of One Safran project management methodologies and tools across all improvement initiatives.

*Promoting Best Practices through sharing, embedding and reinforcing project management best practices throughout the organization to drive standardization.

*Project Planning and Coordination by developing and managing project plans aligned with One Safran requirements, including clear objectives, timelines, deliverables, and risk management.

*Supporting project teams through providing coaching and support to project leaders and teams on the application of One Safran principles, ensuring effective project execution.

*Monitoring progress and compliance by tracking project milestones, ensuring adherence to One Safran standards and timely delivery of results.

*Governance and Reporting through ensuring robust project governance, provide regular updates, and report progress against KPIs using established One Safran templates and dashboards.

*Ensure Alignment with Business Objectives through linking project management activities to broader organizational goals, reinforcing how One Safran methods contribute to operational and strategic outcomes.

*Advance existing standards and processes through the implementation and continuous improvement of One Safran tools and methodologies.

*Ensure all Operational Excellence activities are conducted with a focus on environmental responsibility and sustainability.

*Support the deployment and implementation of the Safran Operational Excellence Roadmap/Flight Plan.

*Undertake additional duties as needed to support overall business priorities.

*Deploy operational strategies that align with business objectives, customer requirements, and organizational goals.

*Lead, inspire, and empower teams in the adoption and adherence to operational excellence standards and best practices.

*Build strong, effective relationships with both internal and external customers to foster transparency and alignment.

Desired profile

Knowledge, Experience, Training and Qualifications
ItemEssential or Desirable
In-depth understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).Essential
Understanding of project management frameworks (preferably One Safran Project Management).Desirable
Familiarity with root cause analysis, problem solving tools, and change management techniques.Essential
Proven experience in leading and delivering successful continuous improvement projects at a plant or business-unit level.Essential
Demonstrated track record in coaching, mentoring, and developing cross-functional teams in a manufacturing or operational environment.Essential
Hands-on experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence initiatives, from concept through to sustained implementation.Desirable
Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or equivalent advanced level certification).Essential
TWI (Training Within Industry) certification or in-company train-the-trainer programEssential
Evidence of ongoing professional development in operational excellence, continuous improvement, or leadership.Desirable

About SAFRAN

Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment and interiors), space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, the Group employs 110,000 people and generated €31.3 billion in revenue in 2025. Safran holds, either independently or through partnerships, leading global or European positions in its markets.

Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's ""World's Best Companies 2025"" ranking.

With more than one million seats installed across the fleets of the world's leading airlines, Safran Seats is one of the global leaders in passenger, crew, aircraft and helicopter seating, delivering innovative, high value-added solutions.