At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global projects to enhance efficiency and quality using Lean and Six Sigma.
- Company: Join a leading global manufacturing organisation focused on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, benefits, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth and global influence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving transformation in a dynamic global environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and proven experience in Lean/Six Sigma projects.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.
We’re supporting a global manufacturing organisation in their search for a hands-on and strategic Operational Excellence Manager. This role plays a key part in driving business-wide transformation through Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. Working closely with senior leaders, you’ll lead high-impact projects across global sites, improving cost efficiency, delivery performance, quality standards, and safety outcomes.
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Lean and continuous improvement professional to take on a senior-level role within a global operations environment. Reporting to the EVP of Operations, you’ll shape and deliver strategic initiatives that align with business goals and embed a culture of operational excellence. This position offers a mix of project leadership, stakeholder engagement, and global influence.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Business Planning & Strategy
- Translate business objectives into a structured portfolio of improvement and transformation projects
- Prioritise initiatives focused on operational efficiency, cost reduction, and customer value
- Act as a subject matter expert for Lean and Six Sigma across international sites
- Project Leadership
- Develop and lead cross-functional project teams across manufacturing, supply chain, engineering, and quality
- Define clear project goals, budgets, timelines, and performance indicators
- Ensure all projects meet regulatory requirements and business objectives
- Continuous Improvement
- Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and structured problem-solving sessions
- Identify improvement opportunities using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies
- Deliver measurable results in OEE, lead times, cost, safety, and quality
- Coach and mentor teams to build internal capability and sustain improvement
- Governance & Reporting
- Implement structured governance, reporting and risk management frameworks
- Maintain performance reports, KPIs, and detailed project documentation
- Support capital expenditure planning and ensure alignment with business strategy
What We’re Looking For
- Degree or equivalent in a relevant technical, engineering, or operations field
- Proven experience leading Lean/Six Sigma and continuous improvement projects in a manufacturing environment
- Black Belt (or Green Belt with significant experience) in Lean Six Sigma
- Formal project management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile, APMP)
- Strong change management experience, ideally in a regulated sector
- Confident communicator with excellent stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to travel globally as needed
Key Details
- Salary: £65,000 – £75,000 + Bonus + Benefits
- Location: On-site, Greater Cardiff area
- Working Hours: Monday to Friday
- Travel: Some international travel may be required
- Driving: Full UK driving licence required due to site location
Ready to drive operational transformation at a global scale? If you're passionate about continuous improvement and want to lead impactful change across international operations, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or get in touch to find out more.
Head of Operational Excellence & Project Delivery in Cardiff employer: Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
Join a global manufacturing leader in the Greater Cardiff area, where you will be at the forefront of driving operational excellence and transformation. With a strong focus on Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, this role offers not only competitive salary and benefits but also a vibrant work culture that fosters continuous improvement and professional growth. You'll have the opportunity to lead high-impact projects, engage with senior leaders, and make a significant difference across international sites, all while enjoying a supportive environment that values innovation and collaboration.
Contact Details:
Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Excellence & Project Delivery in Cardiff
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment, 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 Head of Operational Excellence & Project Delivery in Cardiff
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 Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment 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 Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment, 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 Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment 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.
