Operational Excellence Manager
North East
On site, 5 days a week
£80,000 + Car allowance
IWS Implementation & Execution
* Structured Deployment: Lead the site through the formal phases of the IWS program.
* Result Delivery: Apply specific IWS tools (Push/Pull, UPS, 6W2H, CILs, Defect Handling) and Root Cause Analysis to generate breakthrough results in reducing downtime and improving OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
* Strategic Planning: Develop and manage the Site Master Plan and 90 day plans to guide the improvement agenda.
Coaching & Culture Building
* Capability Transfer: The most critical function is transitioning ownership of CI from a central department to the frontline teams. This involves actively coaching and developing IWS Deployment Coaches and Line Leads.
* Daily Systems: Embed and coach Daily Management Systems (DMS) and standard work practices into the site culture.
* Engagement: Drive employee engagement and support the cultural shift using structured tools (PBAT/OHA, 'Values & behaviours').
Candidate Profile:
The company is looking for a senior leader who can influence, not just instruct.
* Experience Base: Proven Leadership experience in a food manufacturing or FMCG environment, ideally managing large teams (150+ people).
* Technical Expertise: A Lean Six Sigma certification is essential, but the candidate must demonstrate a Broad CI Perspective and adaptability across all IWS pillars, not just being an expert in TPM (Total Productive Maintenance).
* Leadership Style (Non-Negotiable): Must excel at Leadership Through Others meaning their CV must show results achieved by coaching, empowering and enabling teams, not just individual delivery.
* Influence & Presence: Needs the gravitas to contribute, challenge, and align senior stakeholders in leadership forums while also connecting effectively with employee representatives and factory floor teams.
Note: Possibility of support with relocation AND/OR sponsorship.