United Global RoRo is looking for an Operational Excellence Executive to lead the design, standardization, and continuous improvement of our end-to-end operational processes.
This role will be responsible for embedding Lean and Six Sigma methodologies into UGR's organizational culture, driving measurable improvements across operational performance, cost efficiency, service quality, and customer experience.
The Operational Excellence Executive will act as a bridge between strategy and execution while leading cross-functional transformation initiatives across the organization.
This position carries strong visibility within the business and offers significant growth potential towards a future leadership role within the Operational Excellence function.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze, design, and standardize UGR's end-to-end operational processes and develop transformation roadmaps from current-state (As-Is) to future-state (To-Be) operations.
- Lead and deliver Lean and Six Sigma improvement projects using DMAIC methodology to generate measurable operational and financial benefits.
- Conduct Value Stream Mapping (VSM) exercises to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and non-value-added activities across operations.
- Organize and facilitate Kaizen workshops and rapid improvement initiatives with operational teams.
- Perform Root Cause Analysis (RCA) to resolve chronic operational issues and eliminate recurring problems permanently.
- Define, monitor, and continuously improve operational KPIs including vessel turnaround time, port waiting time, on-time performance, operational costs, service quality, and process cycle times.
- Develop dashboards and performance reporting mechanisms to support management decision-making.
- Establish and lead cross-functional project teams across departments and international operations to execute improvement initiatives.
- Ensure sustainability of implemented improvements through post-implementation reviews and continuous monitoring.
- Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), workflows, work instructions, and process documentation.
- Collaborate closely with digital transformation and ERP initiatives including NetSuite, Logisoft, and Paragon projects to ensure process simplification prior to automation and digitalization.
- Align process improvement initiatives with Integrated Management Systems requirements including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001.
- Provide Lean and Six Sigma coaching and training to process owners and operational teams while supporting Green Belt and Yellow Belt development programs.
- Lead change management activities to ensure successful adoption of new processes and overcome organizational resistance.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence throughout the organization.
- Present operational performance findings and strategic recommendations to senior management.
- Monitor and ensure timely closure of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) related to the function.
- Perform other duties assigned by the Operational Excellence and Digital Transformation Directorate within the scope of authority and responsibility.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline. Master's degree or MBA is preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, Process Excellence, or related areas with increasing levels of responsibility.
- Strong expertise in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies and their practical implementation.
- Proven experience in process design, business process re-engineering, and operational transformation projects.
- Hands-on experience with methodologies and tools including DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kaizen, 5S, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), SMED, and Hoshin Kanri.
- Strong analytical capabilities with experience in KPI design, process analytics, and data-driven decision-making.
- Knowledge of statistical analysis techniques such as regression analysis, Design of Experiments (DOE), and process capability analysis is preferred.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders within matrix organizations without direct reporting authority.
- Demonstrated experience in organizational change management and transformation initiatives.
- Ability to coach and mentor process owners as well as Lean Six Sigma practitioners.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both executive leadership and operational teams.
- Strong ownership mindset, proactive approach, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in fast-paced environments.
- Good command of English.
- Experience in maritime, shipping, port operations, or logistics sectors is considered a strong advantage.
Preferred Certifications
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) or Green Belt (LSSGB)
- PMP, PRINCE2, or PMI-ACP
- Lean, Kaizen, or TPM certifications
- ISO 9001 Lead Auditor or Lead Implementer
- Prosci ADKAR or equivalent Change Management certifications
- Maritime, shipping, or logistics-related operational certifications and training
Why Join UGR?
At United Global RoRo, we are building a culture of operational excellence that supports our long-term growth ambitions and digital transformation journey.
This is an opportunity to play a key role in redesigning how maritime logistics operations are managed, optimized, and continuously improved while creating measurable impact across the organization.