At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing excellence initiatives and drive digital transformation at our Crumlin Factory.
- Company: Join Unilever, a global leader in sustainable business practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, gym access, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and innovation in manufacturing.
- Qualifications: 2-3 years in manufacturing excellence or process engineering with strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Manufacturing Excellence and Digital Lead is responsible for driving the implementation of manufacturing excellence initiatives and processes at site level. This role plays a key part in embedding Unilever’s Manufacturing System (UMS), improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reducing food waste, and leading the digital transformation agenda. The Manufacturing Excellence and Digital Lead will also line‑manage process engineers and digital and cyber‑security engineer. Additionally, the Manufacturing Excellence & Digital Lead works closely with UMS pillar leads to ensure sustainable performance improvements.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and coordinate site‑wide Manufacturing Excellence initiatives aligned with SU and BG/BU priorities.
- Own improvement projects that increase OEE, reduce waste, deliver cost savings, and eliminate losses.
- Lead the site Loss Tree (DFOS) governance and ensure data accuracy, prioritization, and follow‑through.
- Govern Cost Deployment methodology with Finance to validate savings, hotspots, and transformation priorities.
- Develop and maintain the Site Master Plan, ensuring clear link to 3–5 year performance ambition.
- Lead the rollout, governance, and maturity progression of UMS in line with global standards.
- Own the Focused Improvement (FI) pillar and support all other Pillars in developing and executing their roadmaps.
- Drive the “Run to Standard” (R2S) program across the site to embed stable and reliable operations.
- Coordinate the site preparation for internal and external UMS assessments and ensure audit readiness.
- Lead the ManEx/UMS Governance Forum and drive consistent review of KPIs, pillar progress, and gaps.
- Maintain the Site UMS Roadmap, escalation routines, and improvement cycles.
- Ensure effective deployment, sustainability, and continuous improvement of DFOS across all levels (L1–L4).
- Govern KPI routines, tier meetings, and escalation processes to ensure timely decision‑making.
- Coach teams to use DFOS boards, problem‑solving tools, and visual management effectively.
- Lead benchmarking against internal and external best‑in‑class factories.
- Use performance diagnostics to identify systemic issues and shape strategic improvement themes.
- Deliver monthly ManEx & Digital performance reports to SU Leadership and BG/BU ManEx.
- Support AM Pillar deployment by strengthening basic condition, center‑lining, and lubrication standards.
- Support PD pillar to govern technical skills matrices and operator capability development aligned to UMS standards.
- Partner with Production and AM Leaders to close capability gaps and improve equipment ownership.
- Act as the Site Digital Champion, leading digital and Industry 4.0 initiatives (automation, IIoT, advanced analytics).
- Line manage Process Engineers and the Digital & Cyber Security Engineer to deliver digital solutions with strong change management.
- Govern site data systems, including loss data integrity, asset performance data, and digital reporting tools.
- Ensure all digital solutions comply with Unilever OT/IT Cyber Security standards and risk controls.
- Lead creation, documentation, and replication of best practices through the Global Best Practice Portal.
- Build site capability in UMS tools, problem solving, digital adoption, and continuous improvement.
- Facilitate cross‑functional learning, coaching, and structured training sessions.
KEY MEASURES OF SUCCESS
- Delivery of OEE, Waste %, and Cost Savings targets.
- Progression of UMS maturity, including strong R2S performance and positive assessment results.
- DFOS compliance and effectiveness at all levels.
- Accurate DFOS loss data and clear prioritization framework.
- Digital projects delivered, embedded, and adopted by operations teams.
- Demonstrated uplift in capabilities across operators, process engineers, and pillar leaders.
- Strong compliance performance across SHE, Quality, Cyber Security, and Engineering standards.
ALL ABOUT YOU
- 2–3 years experience as a ManEx/Process Engineer and demonstrate good understanding of WCM, UMS, etc.
- Experience in deploying structured improvement programs (e.g., TPM, LEAN, WCM, UMS).
- Knowledge of digital manufacturing systems and Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Strong project management, stakeholder engagement, and change management skills; PMP is preferred.
- Excellent analytical and problem‑solving ability with a data‑driven mindset.
- Strong facilitation, coaching, and communication skills.
- Engineering or Production experience is preferred.
WHAT WE OFFER
A competitive salary and pension scheme, an annual bonus, free gym access, discounted staff shop and shares. The role is advertised on a full‑time basis but flexible working options can be discussed. Unilever offers wellbeing support, development opportunities, and strives to create a family‑friendly inclusive workplace.
EEO STATEMENT
Diversity at Unilever is about inclusion, embracing differences, creating possibilities, and growing together for better business performance. We give full and fair consideration to all applicants and continue development of all employees regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, and pregnancy and maternity. We provide reasonable adjustments during the application and interview process.
Manufacturing Excellence & Digital Lead in Crumlin employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
Unilever is an exceptional employer located in Crumlin, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and continuous improvement. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Unilever empowers its workforce to thrive while driving meaningful change in manufacturing excellence and digital transformation. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, flexible working options, and access to wellness resources, making it a rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Excellence & Digital Lead in Crumlin
✨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 Dormont Manufacturing Co, 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 Manufacturing Excellence & Digital Lead in Crumlin
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 Dormont Manufacturing Co 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Dormont Manufacturing Co, 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co 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.
