SynEx Corporate Functions Black Belt

Synthomer is an innovative and differentiated global leader in sustainable polymer solutions. The Group is one of the world’s foremost suppliers of water-based polymers and has leadership positions in many markets. Our polymers help customers create innovative new products and enhance the performance of existing products in key industries such as coatings, construction, adhesives, textiles, paper and nitrile medical gloves.

With the acquisition of Eastman Adhesive Resins in 2022 and Omnova Solutions in 2020, Synthomer grew its global manufacturing network, expanded its product portfolio and boosted its geographical presence, allowing it to better serve over 6000 customers around the world. Synthomer has its operational headquarters in London, UK, and provides customer-focused services from regional centres in Harlow, UK; Marl, Germany; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Beachwood, Ohio, USA. It employs more than 5000 employees across over 40 sites and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Job purpose: 

The Corporate Functions Black Belt is essential in promoting ongoing enhancement within Synthomer’s corporate divisions, with a particular emphasis on Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement, and Innovation. This position is pivotal in facilitating the effective implementation of the Synthomer Excellence (SynEx) methodology, which aims to enhance speed, reduce costs, improve quality, and boost engagement across corporate functions.

While prior experience in Lean Six Sigma is advantageous, comprehensive Black Belt training and certification will be provided. The role involves taking ownership of, refining, developing, and training in the methodology, mentoring Support Functions’ Green Belts in driving improvements, advising and coaching the organisation at all levels, and coordinating various SynEx initiatives within the corporate functions.

Key responsibilities: 

• Oversee and direct cross-functional improvement initiatives within corporate divisions, ensuring alignment with Synthomer's strategic goals and True North metrics. 

• Work in partnership with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to pinpoint areas for enhancement, evaluate challenges, and guarantee the success of projects. 

• Utilise Lean Six Sigma principles to analyse and address intricate issues across various functions, driving significant advancements in essential business metrics. 

• Facilitate the implementation of continuous improvement tools and methodologies, mentoring and training teams within corporate divisions to enhance their capabilities for sustaining improvements. 

• Serve as a change agent, guiding corporate teams through operational changes and promoting the adoption of SynEx processes. 

• Provide regular updates on project status and outcomes through established reporting channels, sharing successes and insights with key stakeholders throughout the organisation. 

• Engage in continuous learning and development in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and relevant functional areas, with the expectation of completing full Black Belt training and certification. Direct and lead Synthomer Excellence at the program level for Corporate Functions (CF). 

• Coach, mentor, and facilitate the establishment of True North Metrics/Targets, focusing on must-win battles as defined by CF leadership. 

• Actively participate in the Synthomer Excellence community across corporate functions. 

• Guide and mentor the Divisional Leadership Team in the Synthomer Excellence methodology, employing a structured coaching approach to manage deviations and failures. 

• Implement clear metrics to drive significant improvements in value streams and generate value. 

• Be an active member and expert contributor to the Synthomer Excellence Community, fostering global networking with corporate and other business unit stakeholders. 

• Coach and mentor Green Belts in Synthomer Excellence methodologies. 

• Collaborate with Functional Excellence directors to leverage their expertise and knowledge. 

Essential job requirements: 

• Professional experience in Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement, or Innovation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and lead projects in complex corporate environments.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in process improvement, project management, or operational excellence.
• Ability to thrive in a flexible, dynamic, and fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to undergo full Black Belt training and certification.
• Experience in facilitating process optimisation and process change initiatives in a cross-functional and divisional settings.
• Solid and effective strategic thinker and problem solver with a high degree of emotional intelligence and the ability to both recognise and anticipate challenges.
• Has the ability to engage and build trusted relationships with Green Belts and project teams in a constructive, collaborative manner.

Desirable:
• Prior experience or knowledge of Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Yellow Belt preferred but not required).
• Familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools

In addition, we offer a highly desirable benefits package:

• Private health insurance

• Company bonus scheme

• Contributory pension

• Cycle to work scheme

• Life insurance

• Support counselling

• Company social events throughout the year

At Synthomer we value the difference everyone brings to work and we are committed to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, where people are supported to make their best contribution in creating a vibrant and successful business.

Why Synthomer?

We are ambitious!
We have grown significantly – both organically and inorganically. We are a FTSE 250 listed company, 22% of our revenue comes from newly commercialized products, and we’re recognized in the top-quartile for chemicals manufacturing safety.​

We believe in high challenge, high support!
We are keen to let you contribute in real roles from day 1. We expect a lot, but offer a lot, too. This includes onboarding, induction and learning events, networking opportunities, mentoring and personal development planning. So, be up for an inspiring long-term career adventure.​

We personalize our approach to development!
At Synthomer, you won't find generic career tracks or development programs but rather a one-size-fits-one approach to employee development. We'll partner with you to ensure you have the right experiences that build your capabilities and accelerate your career growth.