Continuous Improvement Manager / IPS Manager

IKEA Industry is the world’s largest manufacturer of wooden furniture and is an integral part of the IKEA supply chain. At IKEA Industry, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive workplace where every co-worker can thrive. Our mission is to foster a culture of collaboration, growth, and well-being, in alignment with the IKEA vision of "creating a better everyday life for many people." Join us in crafting not just great products, but great futures for our co-workers.

As the  Continuous Improvement Manager / IPS Manager, you will lead and develop the IPS (IKEA Production System) team at the Malacky site, consisting of three IPS Leaders. Your mission will be to strengthen and embed the IPS way of working across all three production units, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence. The position is a part of extended Management Team.

• Lead, mentor, and support a team of 3 IPS Leaders (Continuous improvement leaders).
• Drive and implement continuous improvement initiatives using IPS methodologies (Performance Boost - Kaizen weeks, Problem Solving, Global Model, etc.)
• Develop and analyze production processes and concepts to identify improvement areas.
• Support processes as Production, Quality, Maintenance in identifying performance gaps and guiding the organization to solutions.
• Promote the IPS culture and ensure consistent application across all units.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align IPS activities with business strategies and customer expectations.
• Provide training and hands-on coaching on lean tools and techniques tailored to the organization’s maturity level.

• Solid understanding of IPS (lean) principles, methods, and tools – able to choose the right approach based on organizational maturity and performance gaps.
• Technical expertise  in manufacturing technologies and production processes.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop people.
• Deep awareness of customer needs and expectations and the ability to align improvement activities accordingly.
• Broad, holistic view of IKEA’s industrial landscape and factory network.
• Fluent in English (B2/C1 level).

Why Join Us:

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
• 5 extra days of vacation.
• Flexible working hours.
• Possibility of occasional remote work (Home Office).
• Fitness center, sauna directly in the plant.
• Anniversary rewards and additional incentives.
• 15% discount at Ikea.
• Wage: from 3.500 EUR/month, final offer depends on proven experience of successful candidate

The position is open for Malacky site. Please, send your application via Smart Recruiter link.

Excited about this opportunity? Apply today and become part of the IKEA family!