Director Operational Excellence - Hanseatic Global Terminals

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About Us

Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT) is Hapag-Lloyd’s newly started terminal and infrastructure business division based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. We are dedicated to providing port terminal, intermodal and infrastructure solutions and services in the maritime sector to support and strengthen Hapag-Lloyd as a shipping group. With a strong commitment to excellence and sustainability, we strive to enhance efficiency, safety, and profitability across our diverse portfolio of activities worldwide.                                                         

The Director of Operational Excellence Project is initially a 6-month project based role that is charged with diagnosing the existing level of operational efficiency and improvement systems in Hanseatic Global Terminal’s portfolio and on that basis propose whether and how a global operational excellence system based on LEAN can add value to the business. If mutually agreed, the project role can become permanent with the task of implementing and developing the operational excellence system as agreed, and thereby lay the groundwork for HGT to become a continuous improvement organization and eventually a world-class terminal operator.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Diagnose the existing level of operational efficiency and establish and inventory of existing improvement systems in the portfolio;

  • Propose whether and how a global operational excellence system based on LEAN and building on the existing systems as relevant can add value to HGT;

  • Suggest detailed project plan to implement such system, that will be expected to include at least the following features:

    • Link and scale improvement program towards the individual terminal’s asset strategy and the implementation of it;

    • Develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational benchmarks tailored to Lean methodologies, ensuring optimal performance across terminal operations and integrating with current company initiatives;

    • Lead Lean process improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve throughput, and maximize value for customers, while leveraging existing processes and tools;

    • Collaborate with terminal management teams to identify areas for improvement, using Lean tools and techniques to standardize best practices across terminals and align with ongoing improvement programs;

    • Champion continuous improvement efforts by aligning Lean thinking with HGT’s business goals and incorporating established best practices from across the organization;

    • Analyze operational data to identify trends, propose corrective actions, and continuously implement Lean-based improvements, integrating insights from existing data systems;

    • Manage change initiatives, ensuring smooth transitions in operational processes and fostering a Lean culture, while maintaining synergy with ongoing initiatives within the company and its subsidiaries.

Candidate Profile

  • Proven experience (8+ years) in operational excellence, process improvement, and efficiency initiatives within terminal or logistics operations, with a strong focus on Lean methodologies;

  • In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in applying Lean principles to drive operational improvements, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency, with the ability to leverage and enhance existing systems and initiatives;

  • Experience in developing and implementing Lean-driven KPIs and performance metrics that promote continuous improvement, integrating with current operational frameworks;

  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams to successfully implement Lean initiatives, driving sustainable improvements across all levels of the organization while building on existing company processes;

  • Strong analytical skills with a proven ability to leverage operational data to inform decision-making and drive Lean-based process optimizations, working with existing data and reporting systems;

  • Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a track record of fostering a Lean culture, managing change, and enhancing current initiatives in dynamic environments.

What we offer

  • Competitive salary and benefits package;
  • Opportunity to work in a growing, fast growing and dynamic organization;
  • Collaborative and supportive work environment.
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