This role is responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives using FIRST CHOICE tools specific to DHL across service lines and Chennai centre at large. This role involves coaching teams on FIRST CHOICE tools, driving efficiency projects, and acting as a subject matter expert in improvement methodologies. The Manager will lead automation projects, including RPA, to enhance operational efficiency and quality, and ensure the implementation of best practices across all centers. Reporting to the Centre Head for Operational Excellence, this position requires a Six Sigma Black Belt certification and extensive experience in operational excellence or continuous improvement roles.

• Lead organizational problem-solving and automation projects to enhance processes and performance.
• Ensure process excellence and performance improvements in assigned service lines or center locations through a structured approach.
• Coach and train team members on various continuous improvement (CI) tools and methodologies to build internal capabilities, including FIRST CHOICE tools.
• Identify and drive efficiency and effectiveness improvement projects. Lead the identification of improvement or re-engineering opportunities across different verticals through strategic reviews, process mapping, and metrics analysis.
• Spearhead the development of operational and support teams’ capabilities in improvement methodologies, enhancing overall organizational competence.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in continuous improvement, providing analysis support, guiding, and training teams to ensure adherence to best practices.
• Mentor teams and lead improvement projects with a focus on generating significant business impact and achieving measurable results.
• Identify opportunities for automation and process redesign, including the use of Robotic Process Automation (RPA), to drive efficiency benefits and elevate quality standards.
• Drive the adoption of best practices across all Global Service Centers (GSC), ensuring uniformity and high standards of operational excellence.
• Utilize data analytics skills to facilitate informed decision-making and determine operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) based on business requirements.
• Execute strategic projects aimed at enhancing efficiency, productivity, and quality within the organization.
• Conduct regular one-on-one meetings to review team member performance, set clear objectives, and provide constructive feedback for continuous development.
• Identify training needs and opportunities for team members to enhance their skills and career progression.
• Foster a positive team culture that motivates employees, encourages innovation, and recognizes contributions to project successes and operational improvements.

Educational and Certification Requirements:

• Possess at least a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized University in any discipline. Graduates in Engineering are preferred due to the analytical and systematic approach the field provides.
• Must be a Certified Black Belt, demonstrating advanced proficiency in Six Sigma methodologies and a strong commitment to continuous improvement practices.

Work Experience:

• A minimum of 5 to 7 years of work experience specifically in an Operational Excellence or continuous improvement role as a Black Belt, leading and executing projects with measurable success.

Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced skills in MS Office are essential for data analysis, reporting, and presentation needs.
• Robust experience in client-facing or consulting roles, showcasing the ability to understand client requirements and deliver tailored solutions.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills are critical for articulating ideas, leading change initiatives, and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
• An analytical mindset with a logical approach to problem-solving, capable of dissecting complex issues and devising effective solutions.
• Confidence in core operational excellence principles, coupled with the ability to drive projects independently with minimal oversight. A self-starter attitude is vital for success in this role.
• While logistic experience is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, familiarity with industry-specific challenges and workflows can be beneficial.
• The ability to work collaboratively across teams and departments, influencing others to adopt best practices and contribute to improvement initiatives.
• Proven leadership skills, with experience in managing teams, driving performance, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• A self-starter attitude, confident in leading initiatives with minimal supervision.
• Logistic experience is preferred but not mandatory, offering contextual understanding of operational challenges.