Lean Leader – Dowty (GE Aerospace Company)
Job Description
About the Role
Dowty, part of GE Aerospace, is seeking a Lean Leader to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across the organization using GE Aerospace’s proprietary “Flight Deck” lean operating model.
In this pivotal role, you will lead Lean initiatives to optimize processes, improve quality, enhance safety, ensure on-time delivery, and reduce operational costs — aligning with the company’s core priorities of Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC).
You will report to the Dowty Global Flight Deck Leader, collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement sustainable improvements, develop Lean capability, and foster a culture of problem-solving and innovation.
About “Flight Deck”
“Flight Deck” is GE Aerospace’s proprietary Lean operating system designed to embed continuous improvement, operational excellence, and strategic alignment across all functions. It integrates methodologies such as Kaizen, Kata, Hoshin Kanri, and Standard Work, customized to meet the specific needs of GE Aerospace and Dowty operations.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and coach Lean implementation across the business, partnering with leadership to define strategy and set improvement priorities.
Act as an independent Lean coach and mentor, guiding teams in applying Flight Deck principles to achieve measurable improvements in SQDC metrics.
Facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and training sessions to strengthen Lean capability across departments.
Lead complex problem-solving activities and continuous improvement projects aligned with Flight Deck standards.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement by engaging employees at all levels and encouraging ownership of Lean practices.
Analyze operational processes to identify waste and implement Lean solutions that improve efficiency and quality.
Ensure sustainability of improvements through standardization, documentation, and performance audits.
Champion change and innovation, challenging traditional practices to promote business transformation.
Qualifications
Essential:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college.
Proven experience in process improvement, Lean leadership, and change management.
Strong track record of driving measurable operational improvements.
Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to influence and engage teams at all levels.
Desired:
Recognized Lean or Six Sigma qualifications.
Strong analytical and quantitative abilities, including statistical literacy.
Experience coaching cross-functional teams in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
Proven capability to lead cultural transformation initiatives.
Working Environment
GE Aerospace supports flexible working arrangements where possible, recognizing the importance of work-life balance and employee well-being.
Compensation and Benefits
GE Aerospace offers a comprehensive Total Reward package through its FlexChoice benefits plan, providing flexibility and choice to suit individual needs.
Default Benefits Include:
Non-contributory pension plan
Life assurance
Group income protection
Private medical insurance
26 days of annual leave (pro rata), with the option to buy or sell additional days
Security and Right to Work
This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which must be obtained and maintained.
For more information on BPSS requirements, visit: BPSS – GOV.UK
Applicants requiring UK visa sponsorship are welcome to apply. However, offers will be subject to current UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regulations.
Further information can be found at: UK Visas and Immigration – GOV.UK
Join Us
At Dowty and GE Aerospace, you’ll help shape the future of aviation by driving innovation, efficiency, and excellence through Lean principles.
If you’re a passionate change leader ready to make a measurable impact — we’d love to hear from you.
