Lean Specialist

This role is integral to improving efficiency, agility, and data-driven decision-making, aligning with our vision for operational excellence.

Accountabilities:
As a Lean Specialist, you will:
- Design, implement, and support digital tools to observe key performance indicators, refine workflows, and enable real-time decision-making.
- Provide training and mentoring on Lean methodologies and digital best practices, building capability throughout the organization.
- Lead and facilitate Lean improvement projects using tools as 5S, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, and Kaizen, while integrating digital solutions to improve process visibility and automation.
- Collect and analyze operational data, applying intricate analytics and digital insights to target root causes and sustain improvements.
- Network within AstraZeneca to identify benchmarking opportunities.
- Partner with teams to find opportunities for process optimization, demonstrating data analytics, digital dashboards, and automation tools alongside Lean principles.
- Mentor teams on process ownership, following Standard Ways of Working and having a balanced process for improvement.
- Ensure all Lean and digital initiatives align with AstraZeneca’s regulatory, safety, and data integrity standards.
- Balance technical and people management skills with a hands-on teamwork approach to problems, planning, and people associated with all aspects of the initiatives.
- Apply principles of logical, scientific thinking and continuous improvement concepts to a wide range of practical problems.

Essential Skills/Experience:
- 3-5 years or more work experience in a manufacturing environment demonstrating lean leadership (not necessarily pharma)
- Bachelor's degree (engineering preferred)
- Good knowledge of the DMAIC process and Lean Tools such as SMED, Kaizen Blitz, etc.
- Practical understanding of digital technologies and data visualization tools.
- Demonstrated experience in facilitating teams and groups in process improvements.
- Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communications skills.

Desirable Skills/Experience:
- Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) with formal training
- Healthcare, pharmaceutical or biotechnology experience preferred.
- Effective internal consulting skills with all levels of management.
- Proven ability to prioritize multiple projects

At AstraZeneca, you'll find yourself in a dynamic environment where innovation is at the heart of everything we do. With constant new products and launches, there's never been a better time to join us. We grow with challenges and are driven by our mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Our collaborative spirit fosters an encouraging space where ideas are welcomed and rewarded. As part of our agile team, you'll have the opportunity to influence supply chain development, promote a Lean approach, and lead on sustainability.

Ready to make a significant impact? Apply now to join our team at AstraZeneca!

Date Posted

10-Jul-2025

Closing Date

24-Jul-2025Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.