Head of WCI Development

Wärtsilä is an innovative technology company known for being a forerunner in the Marine and Energy markets. Every day, we – Wärtsilians - put our hearts and minds into turning Wärtsilä's purpose of enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality. Our ultimate aim is to provide increased value to both our customers and society. New, game-changing ideas and continuous improvement have been part of our DNA since 1834. Together, we can create new business opportunities and more sustainable future that we can all be proud of. 

We want to transition the world towards a decarbonised and sustainable future. By pushing the boundaries of engineering and technology, we can make it work. We are always on the lookout for future-oriented talent – want to join the ride?

Wärtsilä is a global leader shaping the decarbonisation of marine and energy industries with innovative technologies and services. We promote innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement in making our customer successfull in improving their environmental and economic performance.

We are developing Wärtsilä Continuous Improvement (WCI) as an important driver of customer focus and competitiveness. We set up a framework including the WCI model and the governance for its implementation, and in 2024 we began promoting learning and experimentation across the organisation. Are you ready to join us in this journey?

We are looking for a Head of WCI Development with a main responsibility in developing the WCI framework and in supporting our leaders implementing it. This is a global position in the WCI Central Team, reporting to VP, WCI and the preferred location is in Europe. We offer a possibility to hybrid remote work. 
  
Your role and responsibilities:  
 
As a Head of WCI development your work will include:

• Project Management
• Build and lead project teams for WCI development initiatives
• Define requirements and use cases, maintaining the backlog in collaboration with the VP WCI
• Plan and coordinate work iterations to ensure timely project execution
• Coaching and Support
• Provide hands-on support to leaders in implementing the WCI model
• Offer guidance and coaching on selected cases to drive continuous improvement
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to enhance leaders' understanding and application of the WCI model
• Communication
• Support planning and delivering of global communication activities about WCI

 
In doing that the Head of WCI development collaborates with top leaders and experts in the field, expanding the professional network. The role requires as well travelling to support the CI journey in the different Wärtsilä geographies, working together with regional/local leaders and support units. The Head of WCI development is a key role influencing the future direction of Wärtsilä Continuous Improvement journey as part of our strategic framework, The Wärtsilä Way, and ultimately contributing to a culture of excellence, making a lasting impact on the organization. 
 

Requirements for the position: 

• Minimum 5 to 10 years of experience in line management positions within businesses and/or support functions in international companies
• Good understanding of Lean and Continuous Improvement, preferably with an external qualification like Six Sigma green belt
• Good understanding of Project  Management and Agile practices, preferably with an external qualification like PMP (PMI) or Scrum Master

 
Qualifications/to be able to succeed in the position we expect you to have: 

• Attitude for people development and coaching
• Excellent formal and informal leadership
• Strong communication and negotiation skills  

 
Why you and us?   

You are valued – as your true self. At Wärtsilä YOU matter. We value diversity and are committed in supporting inclusive work community.  
Your growth is supported. We believe in continuous learning & teamwork. Wärtsilian community has your back when it comes to development opportunities – so you can develop beyond your potential.  
You get to make a difference. Innovation and sustainability are important for us. Every day, we - Wärtsilians - put our hearts and minds into enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality.   
  
Contact & next steps:  
  
Please submit your application before the application deadline of 20.05.2025 through our Careers portal. Applications through email will not be considered. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email.
 
In case of any questions regarding the position, reach out to: 
Michele Cafagna, 
Vice President, Wärtsilä Continuous Improvement 
michele.cafagna@wartsila.com

Last application date: 20/05/2025 

At Wärtsilä we value, respect and embrace all our differences, and are committed to diversity, inclusion and equal employment opportunities; everyone can be their true self and succeed based on their job-relevant merits and abilities. 

All new Wärtsilä employees in Finland will attend occupational health checks, including drug tests/screenings where applicable. When a person is located outside of Finland, the country's legislation is followed. 

Please note that according to Wärtsilä policy, voluntary consent for a security check may be required from candidates being considered for this position, depending on the applicable country. 

This is Wärtsilä 

Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. Our team of 18,300 professionals, in more than 230 locations in 77 countries, shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. Read more on www.wartsila.com.