Global Program Director Operational Excellence & Transformation

At JBT Marel, we transform the way food is processed. As a global leader in food processing solutions, we enable our customers to produce safe, sustainable, and affordable food. Within our Poultry division, operational excellence is a critical enabler of performance, scalability, and innovation across a complex, high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.

To strengthen our global supply chain capabilities, we are looking for a Program Director Global Operational Excellence to lead large-scale, multi-year transformation initiatives across our global footprint.

The Role

As Program Director Global Operational Excellence, you will lead, orchestrate, and govern strategic programs that drive efficiency, flexibility, and performance across our global Poultry Supply Chain. This is a highly visible, cross-site role where you define and execute the global Operational Excellence roadmap, aligning multiple sites and functions around shared standards, digital solutions, and best-in-class processes. You will lead complex transformation programs that require strong governance, senior stakeholder alignment, and consistent execution across regions.

Key Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Governance

• Define the global Operational Excellence strategy and multi-year program roadmap
• Establish governance structures, decision-making frameworks, and performance review mechanisms
• Ensure alignment with corporate priorities, supply chain strategy, and functional roadmaps

Global Program Leadership

• Lead a portfolio of interconnected OPEX initiatives across regions and functions
• Manage interdependencies, risks, and resource allocation across the global program
• Coach and guide project managers and Operational Excellence specialists

Process Excellence & Standardization

• Drive harmonization and standardization of end-to-end processes (engineering → supply chain → manufacturing → service)
• Facilitate adoption of Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g. RCI)
• Enable global best practice sharing and accelerate process maturity

Digital Transformation

• Champion digital capabilities such as simulation tools, advanced ERP functionality, supplier portals, and performance dashboards
• Promote data-driven decision-making and digital workflows across sites

Performance Management

• Define and monitor KPIs related to productivity, lead time, inventory, quality, and total landed cost
• Ensure transparent reporting, accurate data, and strong governance of improvement metrics

Stakeholder & Change Management

• Build strong collaboration with Engineering, IT, Operations, Procurement, and Service globally
• Lead change management and adoption activities across sites
• Act as strategic advisor to senior leadership on operational performance and capability development

Experience & Education

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field
• Relevant certifications are strongly preferred (Lean, Six Sigma, PMP, PgMP)
• 10+ years of experience in operational excellence, program management, or operations leadership
• Proven track record in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments
• Experience leading global transformation programs and multi-functional teams
• Demonstrated experience with digital manufacturing and ERP transformations

Travel

This role requires international travel to global sites depending on program phases. Details to be aligned with the hiring leadership team.

Our values

Our values show who we are at our best. As we Serve with integrity – Create with collaboration – Grow with excellence – Advance with innovation

We are committed to our employees and will provide you with development and opportunities to allow you to be the best version of yourself at work, at home, and in your community.