Value Stream Manager (Production Manager)

Smith&Nephew Germany · Cr - Alajuela, Costa Rica · full time · On site · August 28, 2026

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Posted August 28, 2026 · Read from Smith&Nephew Germany
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Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

Are you ready to lead a high-performing team and drive operational excellence in a dynamic manufacturing environment? Join us in Coyol, Costa Rica, as a Value Stream Manager and help shape the future of healthcare by delivering quality products that improve lives.

What will you be doing?

  • Leading the overall operations of a value stream, including financial performance, strategic planning, forecasting, and performance management
  • Driving a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across the value stream
  • Managing daily operations to meet quality, cost, and delivery goals
  • Ensuring compliance with GMP, SOPs, FDA, ISO, and other medical device regulatory requirements
  • Implementing lean tools and procedures to reduce process variation and improve product flow
  • Developing and empowering teams through training, resource allocation, and leadership
  • Maintaining SPQDC goals and leading Tier meetings to monitor and improve performance
  • Fostering a positive, collaborative team environment

What will you need to be successful?

  • Ability to lead change and identify improvement opportunities independently
  • Strong leadership, analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills

Required qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Engineering, Business, or related field.
  • Fluent in English (C1-C2)
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years in people management with responsibility for a large team structure.
  • Experience in business financials, manufacturing KPIs, and strategic planning
  • Working knowledge of regulatory, quality, HSE, and GMP requirements
  • Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma and APICS CPIM/CSCP

Preferred qualifications:

  • Master’s or advanced degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Engineering, Business, or related field is preferred.
  • Certifications in Lean Six Sigma and APICS CPIM/CSCP is preferred

You. Unlimited

At Smith+Nephew, we are committed to creating a workplace that supports our people and our patients.

Inclusion + Belonging - Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving. Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website https://www.smith-nephew.com/

  • Your future: Stock purchase program, referral bonus, subsidy in transport and food, recognition program.
  • Work/Life Balance: Additional paid time off days off and voluntary hours
  • Your Wellbeing: On-site medical office, private medical and life insurance, gym, health campaigns, and employee assistance program
  • Flexibility: Flexible work-life balance and hybrid work model
  • Training: Training programs and unlimited learning
  • Extra perks: Employee Association, and more…

Join us and be part of a company that’s making a real difference in the lives of people around the world.

#LI-Hybrid

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We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.

Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.

Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.

Employer
Smith&Nephew Germany
Location
Cr - Alajuela, Costa Rica · On site
Contract
full time