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- Tasks: Lead transformative change and drive strategic improvement across global operations.
- Company: Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection technologies, part of a FTSE 100 company.
- Benefits: Join a purpose-driven organisation with opportunities for innovation and leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global safety while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in operational excellence, Lean/Six Sigma certification, and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Willingness to travel internationally is needed for this role.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. Part of Smiths Group, a FTSE 100 company, we are driven by the mission to make the world a safer place. Our solutions help detect and identify explosives, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and narcotics — protecting people and critical infrastructure every day. With a global presence and a strong culture of innovation, we empower our teams to solve complex problems with cutting-edge technology.
We are currently seeking a dynamic Director of Operational Excellence to lead transformative change and drive strategic improvement across our global operations.
About the Role
This is a high-impact leadership position, responsible for shaping and implementing our global Operational Excellence strategy. You will collaborate closely with senior leadership to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and embed a culture of continuous improvement across our manufacturing and service functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead enterprise-wide operational excellence strategies aligned to business objectives
- Integrate Lean, Six Sigma, and digital tools to streamline processes and drive efficiency
- Build and manage cross-functional teams to deliver complex process improvement initiatives
- Influence strategic decisions with data-led insights and robust KPI frameworks
- Coach and mentor teams at all levels to embed a culture of continuous improvement
- Champion automation and digital transformation to future-proof our operations
What You Bring
- 7+ years of experience in operational excellence or process improvement roles
- Proven leadership of large-scale transformation initiatives
- Lean/Six Sigma certification (Black Belt preferred)
- Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- Fluent in English; additional languages a plus
- Willingness to travel internationally as needed
Why Smiths Detection?
At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of global safety and security. We invest in innovation and in our people - giving you the opportunity to lead, shape strategy, and drive impactful change.
Smiths Detection - Director of Operational Excellence employer: Cielo Talent
Contact Detail:
Cielo Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Smiths Detection - Director of Operational Excellence
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as these are crucial for the Director of Operational Excellence role. Consider attending workshops or webinars to deepen your understanding and demonstrate your commitment to operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of operational excellence, especially those who have experience in the defence or security sectors. Engaging with industry leaders can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of past transformation initiatives you've led. Highlight your ability to influence strategic decisions using data-driven insights, as this will be key in showcasing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Smiths Detection's current operational strategies and challenges. Tailoring your discussions around how you can address these issues will show your proactive approach and genuine interest in the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Smiths Detection - Director of Operational Excellence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in operational excellence and process improvement. Emphasise your leadership roles and any large-scale transformation initiatives you've led, as these are crucial for the Director position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for making the world a safer place through innovative solutions. Discuss how your skills align with Smiths Detection's mission and how you can contribute to their operational excellence strategy.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: If you have Lean/Six Sigma certifications, especially Black Belt, make sure to mention them prominently. This is a key requirement for the role and will demonstrate your expertise in process improvement.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Provide examples of how you've used data-led insights to influence strategic decisions in previous roles. Highlight your ability to develop robust KPI frameworks and how they have driven efficiency in past projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cielo Talent
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Before your interview, make sure you fully grasp Smiths Detection's mission to enhance global safety. Familiarise yourself with their technologies and how they impact various sectors. This will help you align your answers with their core values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Director of Operational Excellence, your leadership skills are crucial. Prepare specific examples of past transformation initiatives you've led, focusing on outcomes and how you influenced teams. This will demonstrate your capability to drive change effectively.
✨Highlight Your Analytical Skills
Smiths Detection values data-led insights. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform strategic decisions in previous roles. Bring examples of KPIs you've developed or improved, showcasing your analytical prowess.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Discuss your experience with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Prepare to explain how you've embedded a culture of continuous improvement in your teams. This will show that you not only understand these concepts but can also implement them successfully.
