New

OPEX Leader

Smith & Nephew
parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, Texas, Fort Worth
Aug 13, 2026
Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. Join Smith+Nephew as an Operational Excellence Lead and play a pivotal role in transforming operations at our Fort Worth, Texas site. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity where you will partner with the Site Leadership Team to drive continuous improvement, accelerate business performance, and embed a sustainable culture of operational excellence. You will lead the deployment of the Smith+Nephew Business System, influence change across multiple functions, and help shape the future of the site through strategic transformation initiatives. What will you be doing? Partner with the Site Leadership Team to develop and execute a multi year transformation roadmap aligned with business and corporate strategy Lead deployment and maturity progression of the Smith+Nephew Business System across all site functions and end to end processes Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence through Lean Management Systems and structured problem solving methodologies Develop, implement, and monitor site KPIs that support business objectives and operational performance Lead strategic programs and complex projects that deliver sustainable business improvements Coach, mentor, and develop operational excellence capabilities across all levels of the organization Support digitization and automation initiatives in partnership with Operations Technology teams Facilitate value stream improvements focused on customer experience, operational efficiency, and profitable growth Improve decision making frameworks and problem solving capabilities within high performing teams Collaborate with global Operational Excellence colleagues to share best practices and strengthen business system tools, templates, and processes Provide regular updates and progress reporting to site and global leadership teams U.S. Sponsorship or H1B transfer is not available for this role. What will you need to be successful? Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field required. Master's degree preferred Leadership roles from disciplines such as operations, supply chain, or engineering Prior experience leading a lean transformation across a cross-functional facility Proven ability to analyze complex data, and develop evidence-based conclusions and data-based recommendations Proven track record for developing, training, and coaching teams Experienced in project and program management Experience in Change Management with demonstrated ability to act as an influential change agent Minimum 8 years in process improvement and Lean experience Minimum of 8+ years of experience and "hands on" track record of implementing successful lean based business systems including elements such as: Strategy Deployment and A3 Thinking Lean Leadership (Daily Management, Visual Management, Gemba Walks, Leader Standard Work) Structured Problem Solving (i.e. DMAIC) utilizing a formal program/process Value-Stream Mapping Kaizen events Implementation of Tiered Accountability/KPI Management across functions and businesses Daily/weekly Shop Floor management systems Experience in regulated industry (i.e. Pharmaceutical, Medical Device) preferred. Business and financial acumen Six Sigma experience and/or certification a plus Med-Tech or Healthcare experience a plus Microsoft Office expertise You. Unlimited. We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve. Inclusion and Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging. Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Purchase Plan, Tuition Reimbursement. Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day. Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program. Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles). Training: Hands On, Team Customized, Mentorship. Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. Stay connected by joining our Talent Community. We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day. Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N. Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.