Process Operations Lead - Stourton

Reporting to the Site Operations Manager, you will be responsible for leading and managing our Continuous Improvement (LCO) team. You will set day-to-day objectives for the team and deliver operational plans, whilst resolving issues and escalation points. You will work cross-functionally with teams on site, as well as the wider UK and global site teams, to share best practices and ensure our Dairy/Creamery operates to a best-in-class standard. You will be responsible for operational KPIs for your entire area.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Operational Management: Ensure operating systems are accurately managed, maintained, and developed for responsive, data-based management of the operation. Resource and roster all aspects of the operation to deliver output and quality objectives while ensuring legal compliance.
• Team Leadership and Development: Maintain and develop a highly motivated team with a developing skillset for continuous improvement. Manage time and prioritize activities in conjunction with business plans. Set standards personally and monitor team performance.
• Communication and Collaboration: Communicate with global specialist networks and relevant third parties and suppliers to seek best practices and awareness of latest technologies. Work closely with other departments such as engineering and supply chain to ensure best practices are embedded.
• Continuous Improvement and Problem Solving: Monitor system faults across processes and work with supply chain specialists to resolve them. Collect relevant data, interpret results, and seek continuous improvement to set and achieve departmental KPIs. Assist engineering and department teams with problem-solving and maintaining equipment and processes at the highest standard.
• Training and Departmental Activities: Update and maintain training and SOP planning and sign-off. Drive dialogue and action planning within the department. Organize team workload daily, provide cover at meetings, and contribute to departmental activities.

To succeed in this role, you need to be an ambitious, strategic, and strong leader with people management experience within a fast-paced manufacturing company. You should demonstrate strong coordination skills and have extensive experience in operational and strategic leadership, with an understanding of continuous improvement, lean manufacturing principles, culture change, and stakeholder engagement.

You will also need:

• Experience leading Total Performance Management, IL6S (Integrated Lean Six Sigma), IWS (Integrated Works Systems), or similar methodologies.
• Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a high-speed environment.
• Significant experience in leading and developing a team.
• Previous experience with implementing digital tools is preferred but not essential.
• Knowledge of BRC & retailer audits, quality, and safety standards.

Next Steps: Please apply using the link or contact Jess Thwaite, Talent Partner at Arla Foods. The closing date for applications is May 25th, 2025.

Shape the Future of Dairy. Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to producing high-quality products while championing sustainability and innovation. We are devoted to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Diversity and collaboration are key to our success, propelling us to new heights in the dairy industry.