We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
New

Director, Continuous Improvement Business Partner

Smith & Nephew
$181,500 - $213,500
parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k), stock options
United States, Texas, Fort Worth
May 08, 2026

Life Unlimited.At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. This role does not currently have direct reports but works across the global matrixed teams (across functions and regions) to grow the adoption of 'Our Way to Win' Conitnuous Improvement Strategyfor maximum impact and cultural transformation. This role works with leadership teams to align and execute against our strategy, and enables the leadership teams to create a continuous improvement culture that routinely achieves its business goals. This person will own the development of continuous improvement capabilities throughout the organization, driving all business KPIs aligned with revenue, SG&A expenses, marketing, R&D driving overall profitable growth.

What will you be doing?

Partners with Sports leadership team to identify/develop and deliver key performance indicators (KPIs) throughout the organization aligned to the overall functional objectives Respectfully cultivates an action-biased culture of continuous improvement to advance business and functional KPI's aligned to Smith + Nephew's corporate goals. Responsible for leading through facilitating/enabling the implementation of'Our Way to Win'throughout all of the Sports business. Establish and mature a Lean Management System (Tiered Accountability, Visual Management, Gemba Walks, and Leader Standard Work) and other coaching tools to transform the culture. Works with teams to streamline processes to improve business and functional objectives, with a specific focus on customer experience and end-to-end optimization. Provides support to develop Continuous Improvement expertise and capability within the organization at all levels. Improves the decision-making model and problem-solving capabilities within high performance teams to increase the autonomy and pace of change. Provides regular, ongoing reporting and communications to Wound OR Sports leadership regarding status ofimplementation andmaturity. Collaborates with Continuous Improvementteammates to leverage and share standard methodologies, and drive improvements to the company level'Way to Win'Roadmap, tools, and technology.

What will you need to be successful?

  • Four-year university degree required (business, marketing, or engineering, preferred); Master's Degree required.
  • Leadership roles from disciplines such as Sales, Marketing, Strategy Development and Deployment, Lean/Operating System/Business System
  • Proven track record for developing, training, and coaching teams across cultures
  • 12 years in process improvement and/or lean related experience
  • Minimum of 8+ years of experience and "hands on" track record of implementing successful lean based business systems including elements such as:
    • Strategy Deployment and A3 Thinking
    • Lean Management Systems (Tiered Accountability, Visual Management, Gemba Walks, Leader Standard Work)
    • Value-Stream Mapping
    • Kaizen events
    • Expertise in problem solving utilizing a formal program/process
    • Implementation of KPI Management across functions and businesses
  • Med-Tech or Healthcare experience a plus
  • Experience in Change Management, and able to act as an influential change agent
  • Microsoft Office expertise

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Broad knowledge of multi-functional, multi-site, global organizational processes and financial business methods
  • Demonstrated skill and confidence in proactively building relationships with top tier partners/leaders both internally and externally
  • Demonstrated experience and leadership in managing comprehensive continuous improvement approaches/methodologies to advance an organization's strategy and goals
  • Strong ability to anticipate future needs of the organization and make decisions in a changing environment
  • Great communicator, demonstrated ability in solid written, oral, and presentation-giving skills
  • Ability to effectively work with different cultures in a global, matrixed environment
  • High ethical standards to support a professional business code of conduct
  • Passion for driving improvement and leading change in complex environments
  • A holistic thinker who can look enterprise-wide to integrate and streamline systems for optimal benefit
  • Able to drive strategic thinking and continuous improvement in both operational and non-operational areas, including connecting cross-functional resources to remove waste along the extended value streams
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with and positively influence leadership and all levels of the organization
  • Energetic, flexible, collaborative and proactive leader who welcomes challenges
  • Manages time and resources effectively through strong organization, multi-tasking, and time management skills
  • Works independently as a self-starter committed to delivering performance results
  • Analyzes information to make sound business decisions taking prudent business risks as appropriate
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Ability to work independently and as a part of a team to seek resolution to problems
  • Acts as an influential change agent
  • Able to travel domestically and internationally up to 50% as needed

You Unlimited.

  • The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $181,500 - $213,500USD annually. The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, and geographic location. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate. In addition to base pay, we offer competitive bonus and benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, medical leave programs, parental leave, generous PTO, paid company holidays, 8 hours of volunteer time annually, and a variety of wellness offerings such as EAP.

  • Inclusion + Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving. Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website https://www.smith-nephew.com/

  • Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement

  • Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day

  • Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program

  • Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model (For most professional roles)

  • Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship

  • Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!

Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

Stay connected by joining our Talent Community.

We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.

Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.

Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.

Applied = 0

(web-bd9584865-ngh6r)