We have an urgent and critical requirement for a highly analytical Lean Manufacturing Specialist to execute a strategic, end-to-end operational review for a small, specialist manufacturing operation based in Birmingham.

This contract is focused on diagnostic analysis and the production of a strategic, high-level improvement roadmap.

The client requires an objective assessment of current manufacturing capabilities and a clear, prioritised plan for future investment and process change.

Key Deliverables: Analysis and Reporting

The specialist will be expected to rapidly immerse themselves in the operation and deliver the following:

1. Comprehensive Diagnostic Review: Perform an end-to-end assessment of all manufacturing processes, covering workflow, material flow, capacity utilisation, and quality control points.

2. Value Stream Mapping (VSM): Conduct detailed VSM across core product lines to accurately map the current state and identify specific, measurable waste and bottleneck areas.

3. Gap Analysis: Define the gap between current state performance (e.g., OEE, lead time) and industry best practices.

4. Strategic Recommendations & Report: Produce a concise, high-level Strategic Improvement Report detailing prioritised, data-backed recommendations for performance uplift. This report must clearly outline the expected ROI and necessary investment for each phase of improvement.

5. Senior Stakeholder Presentation: Present findings and the strategic roadmap to the Senior Leadership Team, defending the proposed analytical basis for change.

Required Experience:

• Proven experience in a strategic or consulting role, focusing heavily on operational diagnostics and business case creation within manufacturing.

• Expert-level ability in applying advanced Lean tools, with a strong focus on data analysis, statistical control, and complex VSM.

• Exceptional report writing and presentation skills, capable of translating complex operational data into clear, compelling strategic advice for board-level stakeholders.

• Must be immediately available for a time-critical, intense analytical assignment.

Please apply immediately if you are a strategy-focused Lean professional.