Wiktionary
n. (context idiomatic English) The amount of time between the initiation of some process and its completion, e.g. the time required to manufacture or procure a product; the time required before something can be provided or delivered.
WordNet
n. the time interval between the initiation and the completion of a production process; "the lead times for many publications can vary tremendously"; "planning is a area where lead time can be reduced"
Wikipedia
A lead time is the latency between the initiation and execution of a process. For example, the lead time between the placement of an order and delivery of a new car from a manufacturer may be anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months. In industry, lead time reduction is an important part of lean manufacturing.
Usage examples of "lead time".
Given investment capital and enough lead time, I can generate whatever funds we need.
And you said you need lead time to get a bankroll, and the Immigration boys are due in a month or two—.
Given investment capital and lead time, I can generate whatever funds we need.