At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Manufacturing Excellence Managers to drive operational excellence across EMEA.
- Company: Join Ball Corporation, a leader in innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to collaborate across diverse teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving manufacturing processes and driving efficiency.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Lean methodologies and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This role is responsible for leading and managing Plant-based Manufacturing Excellence Managers across the EMEA region to deploy and sustain a lean-based Manufacturing Excellence model. The position focuses on driving standardization, operational excellence, and measurable value creation across manufacturing sites while supporting regional and site leadership in achieving cost, quality, and service objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support Manufacturing Excellence Managers in deploying a standardized Lean-Based Management System across EMEA plants.
- Define and execute deployment strategies, planning, training, coaching, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Facilitate change management and ensure effective adoption and long‑term sustainment of Lean thinking.
- Identify, clarify, and remove barriers to operational excellence within manufacturing plants and regional production groups.
- Lead multiple strategic and operational improvement projects from identification and analysis through implementation and sustainable execution.
- Deliver measurable manufacturing cost savings and efficiency improvements.
- Drive the continuous evolution of the Manufacturing Excellence Model to improve competitiveness in cost, quality, and service.
- Partner with leadership to define, scope, launch, and deliver initiatives aligned with organizational priorities.
- Make complex decisions and recommendations with limited direction, using sound judgment and initiative.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders across the regional manufacturing organization.
- Proactively manage risk and communicate project progress, results, challenges, and lessons learned.
- Facilitate knowledge sharing, best practice exchange, and benchmarking within the region and across Continuous Improvement networks.
Experience & Skills Required
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience deploying Lean methodologies in a manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience managing and leading others, ideally in a matrix organization.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to lead initiatives end‑to‑end.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver results through influence rather than direct authority.
- Solid working knowledge of Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies.
- Understanding of financial statements and manufacturing cost drivers.
- Experience with coaching, training, and capability development.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to adapt messaging from shop floor to senior leadership.
- High level of computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Fluency in English.
Ball Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We actively encourage applications from everybody, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, faith, ability, or orientation.
Regional Manufacturing Excellence Lead in Luton employer: Ball Aerospace
Ball Aerospace in Kettering is an excellent employer that prioritises safety, quality, and inclusivity in the workplace. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, team members are encouraged to enhance their skills while contributing to a collaborative environment. The company values diversity and fosters a culture of belonging, making it a rewarding place for individuals seeking meaningful employment in the manufacturing sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Manufacturing Excellence Lead in Luton
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Ball Aerospace, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Manufacturing Excellence Lead in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Ball Aerospace specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ball Aerospace
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Ball Aerospace, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Ball Aerospace value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
