Deputy Head of Optimisation

Deputy Head of Optimisation

Part-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Heidelberg Materials

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead process optimisation and transformation across multiple countries and systems.
  • Company: Join Heidelberg Materials, a leader in sustainable construction materials.
  • Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on global transformation projects and drive innovation.
  • Qualifications: Experience in business transformation and strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK. We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is vital to our growth and advancement. We aim to promote a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement.

At the centre of our actions lies the responsibility for the environment. As the front runner on the path to carbon neutrality and circular economy in the building materials industry, we are working on sustainable building materials and solutions for the future. We enable new opportunities for our customers through digitalisation.

Heidelberg Materials is seeking an experienced and ambitious Deputy Head of Optimisation to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our International Business Service Centre (BSC). This is a high-profile leadership opportunity for a process improvement and transformation specialist who thrives on delivering measurable business outcomes through standardisation, automation, and continuous improvement.

Working across multiple countries, functions, and systems, you will lead the optimisation of end-to-end processes, support the delivery of the Heidelberg Materials synergy programme, and accelerate our automation roadmap. You will collaborate with senior stakeholders, Global Process Owners, and Digital teams to drive operational excellence across the organisation.

What You'll Be Doing
  • Lead Process Optimisation and Transformation
    • Drive the redesign and optimisation of end-to-end business processes across multiple countries and systems.
    • Identify, design, test, and implement process improvements that deliver tangible automation benefits and cost efficiencies.
    • Champion standardisation by eliminating process variants and aligning operations with global standards.
    • Ensure all process enhancements support the wider automation and transformation strategy.
  • Act as the Business Systems Expert
    • Serve as the BSC Subject Matter Expert for in-scope business systems.
    • Provide technical leadership and guidance on complex operational and system-related challenges.
    • Leverage deep end-to-end process knowledge to support business performance and continuous improvement.
    • Support new transitions, system implementations, and capability development through SME expertise and training.
  • Influence and Deliver Strategic Projects
    • Represent the BSC within Heidelberg Materials communities, including Digital and Transformation teams.
    • Partner with senior leaders, Steering Committees, Global Process Owners, and project teams to drive successful outcomes.
    • Influence decision-making to ensure compliance with group standards and optimisation objectives.
    • Monitor and drive project delivery, ensuring milestones, benefits, and timelines are achieved.
  • Lead, Develop and Inspire Teams
    • Provide leadership to a team of Transformation Analysts and Senior Transformation Analysts.
    • Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
    • Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing talent.
    • Build a flexible, agile team capable of adapting to changing business priorities and project demands.
What We're Looking For

We're looking for a transformation leader who combines strategic thinking with operational delivery excellence. You will bring:

  • Extensive experience in business transformation, process optimisation, shared services, or business services environments.
  • Strong knowledge of end-to-end business processes and enterprise systems.
  • Proven success delivering automation, standardisation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Experience leading cross-functional and international projects involving multiple stakeholders.
  • Exceptional stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated people leadership experience, including coaching, mentoring, and team development.
  • A data-driven approach with a focus on delivering measurable business benefits.
Why Join Heidelberg Materials?

This is an opportunity to join a globally recognised organisation committed to innovation, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. You'll have the chance to influence large-scale transformation programmes, work with senior leaders across international markets, and help shape the future operating model of our Business Service Centre.

If you're ready to lead meaningful change and make a lasting impact across a complex international organisation, we'd love to hear from you.

At Heidelberg Materials UK (previously known as Hanson UK) we strive to create an inclusive and respectful workplace where every individual can bring their unique skills and background to contribute to the success of our business.

Heidelberg Materials is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

Deputy Head of Optimisation employer: Heidelberg Materials

Heidelberg Materials is an excellent employer that values its staff by offering competitive pay and flexible working hours, making it ideal for those seeking a part-time role. The supportive work culture fosters teamwork and respect, while opportunities for personal growth and development are encouraged within the company. Located in Mold, employees benefit from a friendly environment that prioritises well-being and job satisfaction.

Heidelberg Materials

Contact Details:

Heidelberg Materials Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Optimisation

Tip Number 1: Get Hands-On at Local Job Fairs

Construction companies often attend local job fairs, so make sure to hit those up! Bring along your good vibes and don’t just drop off your CV – chat with recruiters, show your enthusiasm, and ask questions about their projects. You'd be surprised how much face-to-face interaction can make you stand out!

Tip Number 2: Tap into Trade Associations

Join local trade associations or industry communities related to construction. They often have member-exclusive job boards, networking events, and workshops where you can meet industry pros. Plus, showing that you're involved in these communities makes you more appealing as a candidate!

Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Skills online

Start a small blog or a social media page showcasing your construction projects or skills. Post photos of any work you've completed or share tips and tricks you’ve learned. This not only proves your expertise, but can also attract potential employers looking for talent just like you.

Tip Number 4: Diversify Your Search

Don't limit your search to just big construction firms! Look at local independent builders, renovation specialists, and even landscaping companies. Often, smaller outfits are more open to part-time workers and can provide great experience. Check out our website for opportunities at places like Heidelberg Materials and keep your options wide!

We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Optimisation

Process Optimisation
Business Transformation
Automation
Continuous Improvement
Stakeholder Management
Project Management
Team Leadership

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Relevant Skills:In the construction field, it's all about hands-on skills and experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant certifications, tools you’re skilled in, or even specific projects you've worked on. If you’ve got a CSCS card, don’t forget to mention it!

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a part-time role like this one at Heidelberg Materials, your cover letter should reflect your willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic environment. Talk about what interests you in construction and why this position caught your eye. We want to see your passion!

Mention Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, clearly stating your availability in both your CV and cover letter will make it easier for Heidelberg Materials to see if you fit their needs. Highlight when you can work and how flexible you are with shifts – it shows you're committed and ready to dive in.

Use a Straightforward Format:In construction, clarity is key. Use a simple, easy-to-read format for your CV, and make sure to list your experience in reverse chronological order. We want to quickly see your relevant experience and skills!

How to prepare for a job interview at Heidelberg Materials

Understand Safety Standards

In the construction industry, safety is paramount. Brush up on safety regulations and industry standards that are relevant to the role you're applying for at Heidelberg Materials. Be prepared to discuss how you'd incorporate these practices into your daily tasks.

Showcase Your Skills with Real Examples

When interviewing for a part-time construction role, it’s important to highlight your hands-on experience. Bring along examples of past projects, even if they're personal or school-related, to demonstrate your understanding of tools and techniques commonly used on site.

Flexibility and Teamwork

Part-time roles in construction often require adaptability and teamwork since you might be filling gaps when needed. Be ready to discuss how you’ve worked in teams before and how your availability can be an asset to Heidelberg Materials.

Prepare for Practical Assessments

Some construction interviews may include a practical assessment to check your skills on the tools or methods relevant to the job. Practice common tasks before the interview and be mentally ready to demonstrate your abilities right there on the spot.