At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing operations to ensure safe and efficient production while driving continuous improvement.
- Company: Join Hexcel, a global leader in composites with a focus on quality and transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership development, and a culture of safety and accountability.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on leadership role at the forefront of innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and significant senior leadership experience in manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Overview
In this role you will lead manufacturing operations at Hexcel’s Duxford site to deliver safe, efficient and compliant production aligned with customer and business goals.
You will shape and execute operational strategies to hit targets across production, quality, cost, delivery and safety.
By driving continuous improvement and Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, you will elevate performance and cross-functional collaboration.
You will provide strategic leadership for Quality Assurance and Control and foster a culture of safety and accountability.
This is a hands-on, impact-driven leadership role at a global composites leader with a strong emphasis on quality and transformation.
Responsibilities
- Lead manufacturing operations to ensure safe, efficient, compliant production meeting customer and business requirements
- Develop and deliver operational strategies to achieve targets for production, quality, cost, delivery, safety and performance
- Drive continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, root cause analysis, waste reduction, and operational excellence initiatives
- Provide strategic leadership for Quality Assurance and Quality Control ensuring compliance with standards
- Maintain and improve the Quality Management System (QMS) and lead audits, investigations, and corrective actions
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimise manufacturing performance, resource utilisation and business growth
- Lead workforce capability, training, succession planning and leadership development
- Champion health, safety, environmental and compliance culture ensuring regulatory compliance
- Provide visible leadership to Manufacturing, Quality, Training and Continuous Improvement teams
- Manage operational budgets and KPIs to improve profitability through efficiency and strategic investment
- Key requirements
- Degree in Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management or related discipline
- Significant senior leadership experience in a composite materials or chemical manufacturing environment
- Proven success leading integrated manufacturing teams and cross-functional collaboration
- Track record of improving safety, quality, productivity, cost efficiency and customer service
- Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and continuous improvement
- Strong understanding of QMS, regulatory compliance, audits, root cause analysis and quality labs
- Ability to develop and deliver operational strategies aligned to business objectives
- Strong commercial and financial acumen including budget management and cost control
- Experience leading organizational change and performance improvement initiatives
- Excellent leadership, communication, stakeholder management, coaching and talent development
- leadership
- stakeholder management
- coaching and talent development
- Lean Manufacturing
- Six Sigma
- Quality Management Systems (QMS)
Head of Operations in Duxford employer: Hexcel Corporation
Hexcel is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Duxford, UK, where innovation and continuous improvement are at the forefront of our operations. Employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, a strong focus on safety, and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects in advanced composite materials. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values your growth and expertise while making a significant impact in the aerospace industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations in Duxford
✨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 Hexcel Corporation, 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 Operations in Duxford
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 Hexcel Corporation 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 Hexcel Corporation
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Hexcel Corporation, 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 Hexcel Corporation 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.
