Continuous Improvement Lead (Innovation DBS Leader) (f/m/d)

As the DBS-driven Continuous Improvement Lead for the WITS organization, you will elevate innovation performance and development execution. You’ll partner with R&D, product management, and senior leaders to translate strategy into measurable outcomes and drive cross-functional, high-impact programs. You will lead Kaizen processes, embed DBS and Lean practices, and coach teams to build sustainable improvement capability. This role offers a strategic, influential position shaping complex product development in a regulated life sciences environment.

• Champion innovation and development performance across WITS using DBS and Lean to improve execution, flow, and predictability
• Partner with senior stakeholders across R&D, program management, product management, and executive leadership to translate priorities into measurable outcomes
• Apply strong project management discipline to cross-functional initiatives, including prioritization, planning, execution tracking, risk management, and stakeholder alignment
• Lead the WITS Kaizen process end-to-end, from opportunity funnel to sustainment of improvements
• Assess continuous improvement maturity, identify performance gaps, and drive targeted improvements through coaching and change management
• Embed DBS and Lean practices such as daily management, visual management, structured problem solving, and Kaizen-based methods
• Provide formal and informal training and facilitation to build DBS capability across development and cross-functional teams
• Demonstrate strategic thinking and executive presence to influence senior leaders and act as a trusted advisor in complex environments

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, sciences, business administration, or related field
• 12+ years of experience in engineering, product development, R&D, innovation, operational excellence, or technical program leadership
• Strong background in Lean, continuous improvement, or business operating system principles; experience with lean-based management systems and tools such as structured problem solving, visual management, Kaizen, or root cause analysis (preferred)
• Proven ability to influence across a highly matrixed organization and drive change without direct authority
• Track record of improving execution, delivery predictability, and performance in product development or R&D environments
• Strong project management skills to structure complex initiatives and drive cross-functional teams to outcomes
• Experience in regulated or quality-driven industries (medical devices, diagnostics, life sciences) (preferred)

• Executive presence
• Influence and stakeholder management
• Coaching and mentoring
• Lean, continuous improvement, and DBS principles
• Structured problem solving
• Visual management