JOB DESCRIPTION:
Abbott is a global leader in healthcare, committed to helping people live not only longer but better lives. With approximately 110,000 employees in 150 countries, Abbott works on a diverse portfolio in diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. At Abbott, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world through a meaningful and challenging job. You’ll be part of a highly successful and widely respected organization that is shaping the future of healthcare. Realize your potential!
Abbott Laboratories Zwolle produces and develops a complete range of medical nutrition products tailored to the specific dietary needs of patients. The product range includes oral and tube feeding such as Ensure™ Plus and Jevity®, disease-specific nutrition like Prosure®, and pediatric oral and tube feeding. For the OpEx, EHS&E, and L&D department at Abbott Laboratories in Zwolle (Rieteweg), we are looking for a:
Operational Excellence (OpEx) Project Manager
As Operational Excellence Project Manager, you will play a crucial role in driving the organization’s journey toward World Class Manufacturing and Operational Excellence. You will serve as the system owner for one or more OpEx systems, guiding cross-functional teams in the continuous improvement of safety, quality, and efficiency standards. Leveraging our Pledge values, you will foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and pride across the organization.
This role requires a strategic mindset, strong stakeholder engagement, and the ability to lead complex improvement initiatives in a dynamic production environment. If you are passionate about shaping a zero-accident culture and elevating GMP execution, we invite you to join our mission.
Tasks and Responsibilities
Project Leadership & Execution
- Lead and implement high-impact improvement projects using Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and change management methodologies.
- Deliver measurable results in cost savings, process efficiency, and compliance.
- Ensure structured project governance, including planning, execution, reporting, and stakeholder alignment.
- Act as a key liaison between Abbott NL and global Abbott Nutrition sites to ensure knowledge sharing and alignment.
- Facilitate 2–3 Kaizen events or unplanned improvement initiatives annually to support plant performance.
Operational Excellence & Knowledge Management
- Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) and system owner for designated OpEx standards and continuous improvement tools.
- Develop and deliver training programs to embed OpEx principles across the organization.
- Apply advanced methodologies for root cause analysis, problem-solving, and performance optimization.
- Continuously expand expertise in Lean Six Sigma and other improvement frameworks to support organizational capability building.
JOB FAMILY: Manufacturing DIVISION: ANSC Nutrition Supply Chain LOCATION: Netherlands > Zwolle : Building 1 WORK SHIFT: Standard
Abbott Laboratories Zwolle offers a competitive salary, an Individual Choice Budget (IKB) including holiday allowance, 13th month salary, generous special leave, and extra vacation days.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree (HBO level) in Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
- Proven track record in leading cross-functional projects within a manufacturing or regulated environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills in both Dutch and English.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure while maintaining a customer- and service-oriented approach.
- High attention to detail with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and compliance.
