Assistant Manager – ELS / IE / Metrics
Introductory Summary
We are seeking a forward-thinking and results-driven professional to join our operations leadership team as Assistant Manager – ELS / IE / Metrics. This position plays a critical role in delivering operational excellence, cost optimization, and continuous efficiency improvements. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in industrial engineering, lean practices, and performance management to drive measurable impact across the organization.
About the Company
Avery Dennison Lanka (ADSL) is a global leader in packaging and labeling solutions with a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. Our Sri Lanka operations are based at Biyagama Export Processing Zone, Biyagama, Sri Lanka, where we continuously strive to deliver high-quality solutions that help customers build stronger brands and improve supply chain efficiency.
As part of Avery Dennison Corporation—a Fortune 500 company with a worldwide footprint—we are guided by a clear mission: to make a meaningful difference through intelligent solutions, sustainable practices, and people-driven innovation. At ADSL, we cultivate a collaborative culture where accountability, safety, and growth are central to everything we do. Our vision is to foster continuous improvement while empowering employees to bring fresh ideas that drive lasting change.
The Role & Responsibilities
The Assistant Manager – ELS / IE / Metrics will oversee operations improvement functions while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. This role goes beyond day-to-day management; it requires the leadership of strategic initiatives that directly contribute to the company’s bottom line.
Core Responsibilities
- Lead ELS, IE, and Metrics functions by setting clear priorities that align with company-wide goals. You will act as a bridge between strategy and execution to ensure measurable success.
- Take full ownership of savings projects, ensuring timely completion and direct financial impact. This means not only managing existing initiatives but also actively identifying new opportunities for cost reduction.
- Monitor and optimize operational efficiency across machines, workflows, and resource utilization to enhance productivity at scale.
- Champion scrap reduction and headcount optimization, while maintaining quality and compliance, ensuring resources are effectively deployed.
- Drive digital transformation within operational processes, such as expanding digital output in Offset, to increase scalability and reduce manual dependencies.
- Ensure robust KPI tracking and reporting, including preparing data and presenting insights at daily and weekly operational meetings.
- Embed a Kaizen culture within ADSL by encouraging continuous improvement, idea-sharing, and cross-functional problem-solving.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver impactful cost optimization and efficiency projects.
- Promote lean, safe, and accountable operations, ensuring compliance with global Avery Dennison standards, including the 6S methodology.
- Develop and execute audit plans, guiding department heads and Six Sigma champions with necessary training and facilitation.
Qualifications & Experience
We are looking for a candidate with both the technical expertise and leadership qualities to make a real impact.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline, ensuring strong foundational knowledge.
- 5–7 years of experience in Industrial Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, or Operations, with a proven record of delivering measurable cost savings.
- Deep expertise in continuous improvement tools such as Lean, Kaizen, and Six Sigma, with the ability to apply these methodologies effectively.
- Proven success in cost optimization initiatives, including process automation and digital transformation.
- Analytical and problem-solving mindset, with a track record of translating insights into actionable business results.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, enabling effective collaboration across departments and levels.
- Proactive and self-driven personality, with the ability to lead initiatives independently and deliver results under minimal supervision.
- Advanced ICT proficiency, particularly in Excel, dashboard development (Looker Studio or similar), and performance tracking systems.
Key Competencies
- Strategic and analytical thinking – the ability to assess challenges holistically and identify long-term solutions.
- Results orientation and accountability – taking full ownership of projects and ensuring commitments are met.
- Project management excellence – effectively leading multiple initiatives simultaneously with strong execution.
- Cross-functional collaboration – working seamlessly with diverse teams to deliver shared objectives.
- Change leadership – acting as a catalyst for embedding continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Initiative and bias for action – being proactive, decisive, and solution-oriented.
What We’re Looking For
Beyond technical skills, we value individuals who bring energy, curiosity, and resilience. The ideal candidate:
- Thrives in a fast-paced operational environment and enjoys solving complex problems.
- Demonstrates strong leadership qualities with the ability to inspire and guide teams through change.
- Is detail-oriented yet strategic, balancing day-to-day execution with long-term vision.
- Possesses excellent interpersonal skills, enabling effective communication across all organizational levels.
- Embraces continuous learning, staying updated with industry best practices and innovative technologies.
Why Join Us
At Avery Dennison Lanka, we believe that our people are the driving force behind our success. By joining us, you will be part of a global organization that values:
- A culture of innovation and collaboration, where new ideas are encouraged and supported.
- Opportunities for professional growth, with structured career development pathways and exposure to global best practices.
- A commitment to sustainability, making your work meaningful as we contribute to a greener future.
- A supportive team environment, where accountability and recognition go hand in hand.
- Work-life balance and employee well-being, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling career journey.
This is not just a role—it’s an opportunity to create real impact by leading cost optimization and operational excellence initiatives that shape the future of our business.
Final Thoughts
The Assistant Manager – ELS / IE / Metrics position offers the perfect blend of leadership, innovation, and problem-solving. If you are passionate about driving efficiency, leading transformative projects, and making a measurable difference in a dynamic global company, this is the right opportunity for you.
Apply today and take the next step in your career with Avery Dennison Lanka.
Published by Amila Kulathunga