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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead continuous improvement initiatives and solve operational challenges across manufacturing sites.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a purpose-driven and innovative leader in sustainable business solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, personal growth opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while fostering a culture of accountability and learning.
- Qualifications: Experience in continuous improvement and strong knowledge of RCA tools required.
- Other info: This role involves travel across multiple sites to drive operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Operational Excellence Lead
Remote (with travel)
We have an exciting and newly created role within our Divisional Reliability Team for an RCA Champion (Operational Excellence Lead).
Key Responsibilities
- Champion the consistent application of RCA and continuous improvement methodologies across all sites.
- Collaborate with site teams to identify performance gaps and implement corrective actions aligned with KPIs including; Productivity, Quality, Waste Reduction and OTIF
- Lead and facilitate cross-functional workshops and RCA investigations to address recurring issues and prevent reoccurrence.
- Develop and oversee site-level action plans to ensure sustainable performance improvements.
- Monitor progress and performance against improvement targets, providing guidance and support to local teams.
- Promote a culture of accountability, learning, and operational discipline.
- Share and scale successful practices across the network to ensure continuous development and alignment.
About You
- Proven experience in a continuous improvement, operational excellence, or lean manufacturing role – ideally within a fast-paced industrial or FMCG environment.
- Strong knowledge of RCA tools (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone, A3, FMEA) and problem-solving methodologies.
- A track record of delivering tangible performance improvements and sustaining change.
- Confident communicator with the ability to engage and influence at all levels of the organisation.
- Proactive, analytical, and committed to driving high standards.
- Willingness to travel across multiple sites as required.
Why DS Smith?
At DS Smith, you’ll be part of a business that is driven by purpose, values innovation, and is committed to creating sustainable value. In return for your expertise and commitment, we can offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunities for personal and professional development
- A collaborative and forward-thinking work environment
- The chance to make a real impact across a dynamic and growing business
Ready to Lead Change?
If you are passionate about continuous improvement and making a measurable impact, we’d love to hear from you.
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Operational Excellence Lead employer: DS Smith
Contact Detail:
DS Smith Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Excellence Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific RCA tools mentioned in the job description, such as 5 Whys and Fishbone diagrams. Being able to discuss these methodologies confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research DS Smith's current operational practices and any recent initiatives they have undertaken in continuous improvement. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led RCA investigations or implemented continuous improvement strategies. Be ready to share measurable outcomes that highlight your impact on productivity and quality.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of DS Smith, if possible. Gaining insights into the company culture and operational challenges can provide you with valuable context to discuss during your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Excellence Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in continuous improvement and operational excellence. Use specific examples that demonstrate your knowledge of RCA tools and methodologies, as well as any measurable improvements you've achieved in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Operational Excellence Lead role at DS Smith, and provide examples of how you've successfully led similar initiatives in the past.
Highlight Relevant Skills: When filling out your application, ensure you emphasise your strong communication skills and ability to engage with various organisational levels. Mention your analytical mindset and commitment to high standards, as these are key attributes for the role.
Show Enthusiasm for the Company: Research DS Smith and mention in your application why you are excited about the opportunity to work with them. Highlight their commitment to sustainability and innovation, and explain how you can contribute to their goals in operational excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨Understand RCA Methodologies
Familiarise yourself with various Root Cause Analysis tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, and FMEA. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these methodologies in past roles to drive continuous improvement.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operational Excellence Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully facilitated workshops or led teams to address performance gaps and implement corrective actions.
✨Quantify Your Achievements
Be ready to share specific metrics that highlight your success in improving productivity, quality, and waste reduction. Use data to illustrate the tangible impact of your previous initiatives on operational performance.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role requires engaging with various organisational levels, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders and fostered a culture of accountability and learning in your previous positions.