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 execute the global Operational Excellence roadmap. You will lead complex transformation programs that require strong governance, senior stakeholder alignment, and consistent execution across sites and 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 and CAPEX 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 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.
Interested?
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please do not hesitate to click on “Apply” and include your resume!
Join us. Shape the future. Start at JBT Marel.
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Skills Required
- Master's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field
- Lean, Six Sigma, PMP, or PgMP certification
- 10 or more years of experience in operational excellence, program management, or operations leadership
- Experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments
- Experience leading global transformation programs and multifunctional teams
- Experience with digital manufacturing and ERP transformations
JBT Marel Corporation Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about JBT Marel Corporation and has not been reviewed or approved by JBT Marel Corporation.
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Retirement Support — Retirement plans are highlighted by a strong company 401(k) match that is often seen as a standout component. Feedback suggests this meaningful match strengthens overall financial security.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage is described as comprehensive, commonly including medical, dental, and vision, with some employer-paid protections. Feedback suggests the core offering is solid even if experiences vary by site.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Paid time off is often characterized as solid or great, with positive remarks about vacation and PTO policies. Feedback suggests time-off provisions contribute meaningfully to work-life balance.
JBT Marel Corporation Insights
What We Do
JBT Marel is a leading global provider of integrated technology, equipment, software, and services for the food and beverage industry. Formed by the merger of JBT Corporation and Marel hf in January 2025, the company specializes in advanced automation and processing solutions to help customers optimize performance, ensure traceability, and increase yield across the global food chain.
