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- Tasks: Lead the UK Operations strategy, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness in supply chain management.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment, opportunities for growth, and a focus on health and safety.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming operations while fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree or MBA required; strong leadership and strategic planning experience essential.
- Other info: This role requires a high level of stakeholder management and the ability to thrive under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
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Operations Director, UK Packaging, Greater London
Client:
DS Smith
Location:
Greater London, United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
EU work permit required:
Yes
Job Reference:
50d90cc0cc72
Job Views:
6
Posted:
03.03.2025
Expiry Date:
17.04.2025
Job Description:
As part of the UK Cluster Management team, the Operations Director will develop, drive, and lead the implementation of the Supply Chain/Operations strategy for the UK, ensuring that all Operations targets and costs are met through the most effective and efficient use of people and equipment.
The Operations Director, UK will report directly to the Managing Director for the UK and have a dotted reporting line to the Regional Operations Director, North Europe.
Key Achievements / Responsibilities
- Own and deliver the strategic plan. Bring critical thinking to the existing plan, transformational activities, and target operating models. Future proof the business with longer-term strategic planning.
- Leads the continuous development and execution of defined Operations/Supply Chain business plans for the cluster.
- Leads the UK Environment, Health, and Safety Function by supporting regional strategy setting and ensuring all work is undertaken in accordance with the company health, safety, and environmental policies.
- Drive the development of capable, lean, and efficient operations and supply chain organization across the UK in close collaboration with the Sector Directors and the site teams.
- Researches and implements the latest techniques of lean manufacturing, challenging the Sector Directors and the Plant GMs to achieve step-changes in performance.
- Development and implementation of a robust asset management strategy for the UK cluster including optimization of cluster manufacturing footprint.
- Responsible for execution of project management system to ensure the most optimum use of resources.
- Anticipates future Supply Chain/Operations trends and innovations, constantly looking for creative methods of reducing the cost of manufacturing.
- Establishes and maintains positive customer and supplier relationships to enhance the performance and reputation of DS Smith.
- Participate and contribute to the overall business development of the entire NE region.
- Drive and facilitate the development of short- and long-term investment plans related to production technology.
- Establish effective communication channels to sales and marketing departments.
- Ensures production is set against business plans to achieve agreed profitability targets.
- Applies comprehensive management control to ensure costs are within budget.
- Ensures that overall operations systems and procedures are in place and in line with DS Smith guidelines.
- Drives forward the emphasis on improved productivity, reduced waste, and reliable manufacturing capacity.
- Manages the Cluster Health & Safety community and ensures active partnership with the Regional Health & Safety Director.
- Ensure that UK identifies and utilizes business synergies across the business entity.
- Build and promote an organizational structure and culture that tears down any functional/business unit barriers.
- Safeguard and lead the continuous DS Smith integration process.
- Warrant and embed the DS Smith business vision, culture, and values in the organization.
- Enrich and expand the talent pipeline within the organization.
- Lead, coach, and develop the Operations team in the UK.
- Establish and develop relationships with key internal stakeholders.
- Role model and champion the DS Smith values and Leadership Competencies.
Person Specification
Education & Qualifications
- Education at Master’s level, MBA or equivalent.
- Strong business acumen and commercial experience at a senior level.
Requirements & Experience
- Experience of driving change and managing growth.
- Demonstrated results from independently driving and implementing organization transformation.
- Multi-Functional / Multi-Site Experience.
- Proven ability to deal with stakeholder management internal and external.
- Strong intellect; analytical and strategic planning skills.
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
- Ability to execute tasks and make decisions in a high-pressure environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and team building skills.
- Excellent people leadership skills.
- Drive, determination, and high standards.
- Ability to lead business change in a fast-moving business environment.
- The highest standards in terms of ambition, performance, integrity, and ethics.
- Maturity and depth of knowledge to provide strong leadership.
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Operations Director, UK Packaging employer: TN United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
TN United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director, UK Packaging
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in supply chain and operations management. Understanding lean manufacturing techniques and how they can be applied to improve efficiency will set you apart as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the packaging and operations industry. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights into the role and the company culture at DS Smith.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in driving organizational change and transformation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed growth and improved operational efficiency in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership skills by showcasing how you've built and developed teams in the past. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and break down silos within an organization, which is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director, UK Packaging
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Operations Director position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key achievements and responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your experience in driving change, managing growth, and leading teams. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to implement strategic plans and manage operations effectively.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role requires strong people leadership skills, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams, developed talent, and fostered a positive organizational culture in your previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the position but also reflect your understanding of DS Smith's values and culture. Discuss how you can contribute to their mission and vision, and why you're the right fit for the Operations Director role.
How to prepare for a job interview at TN United Kingdom
✨Understand the Strategic Vision
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the company's strategic plan and how your role as Operations Director fits into it. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to achieving the operational targets and driving efficiency.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Experience
Highlight your experience in driving change and managing growth. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully implemented organizational transformations in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Demonstrate Strong Stakeholder Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your approach to stakeholder management, both internal and external. Provide examples of how you've built and maintained positive relationships that enhance business performance.
✨Exhibit Leadership and Team Development Abilities
Prepare to talk about your leadership style and how you develop and coach teams. Share examples of how you've enriched talent pipelines and fostered a culture that aligns with company values.
