Global Continuous Improvement Director (China)

About the role

We are looking for a Global Continuous Improvement Director to lead the company’s Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence agenda across its worldwide manufacturing network. Based in Shenzhen/Dongguan, China, the role reports directly to the COO and sits on the Operations Leadership Team, providing high‑visibility influence on how Lean, Six Sigma and digital manufacturing are embedded globally.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute a global Continuous Improvement strategy that drives cost reduction, productivity gains, quality enhancements and overall operational performance.
• Lead multi‑site Lean and Six Sigma transformation programmes, including automation, digitalisation and Manufacturing Execution System (MES) roll‑outs.
• Build and nurture a strong CI culture, developing capabilities and best‑practice standards across all manufacturing locations.
• Collaborate with senior leaders to align CI initiatives with business objectives and regulatory requirements (ISO 13485, FDA).
• Provide regular reporting on measurable outcomes and P&L impact to the executive team.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience, with at least 5 years in senior Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence or Lean Transformation leadership.
• 5+ years in medical‑device manufacturing; CDMO experience is a strong advantage.
• Proven track record of leading global, multi‑site CI programmes that delivered measurable cost and productivity improvements.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business or a related field.
• Fluent English; Mandarin is a plus.
• Willingness to reside in Shenzhen/Dongguan and travel internationally on a regular basis.

Required skills

• Lean methodology
• Six Sigma (Black Belt certification required)
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
• Automation and digital manufacturing technologies
• Regulatory knowledge of ISO 13485 and FDA requirements