At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations to ensure safe and efficient production while driving continuous improvement.
- Company: Join Hexcel, a global leader in advanced composite materials with a strong culture of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a commitment to safety and quality.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative environment focused on operational excellence and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the manufacturing industry and lead a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and significant senior leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advanced lightweight composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and engineered core and composite structures.
We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices, and R&D centers around the globe.
- Become a part of the “strength within.”
- Hexcel is currently seeking a
- Head of Operations for our
Duxford, UK location.
Hexcel seeks individuals who embrace our values – putting safety first, always; leading with integrity, delivering quality; One Hexcel; improving today, better tomorrow.
The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:
- Lead manufacturing operations to ensure safe, efficient, compliant production that meets customer and business requirements.
- Develop and deliver operational strategies to achieve production, quality, cost, delivery, safety, and performance targets.
- 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 customer, regulatory, and quality standards.
- Maintain and improve the Quality Management System (QMS), leading 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 to build organisational resilience.
- Champion a strong health, safety, environmental, and compliance culture, ensuring legal and regulatory requirements are met.
- Provide visible leadership to Manufacturing, Quality, Training, and Continuous Improvement teams, fostering accountability and engagement.
- Manage operational budgets and KPIs, improving profitability through efficiency, cost control, and strategic investment decisions.
Qualifications
- Degree qualified in Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related discipline.
- Significant senior leadership experience within a composite materials or chemical manufacturing environment.
- Proven success leading integrated manufacturing teams and driving cross-functional collaboration.
- Strong track record of improving safety, quality, productivity, cost efficiency, and customer service.
- Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes, operational excellence, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong understanding of Quality Management Systems (QMS), regulatory compliance, audits, root cause analysis, and quality laboratory functions.
- Proven ability to develop and deliver operational strategies aligned to business objectives and measurable outcomes.
- Strong commercial and financial acumen, including budget management and cost control.
- Demonstrated success leading organisational change, transformation, and performance improvement initiatives.
- Excellent leadership, communication, stakeholder management, coaching, and talent development skills, with a commitment to safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the country where the position is based.
Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.
Head of Operations employer: Hexcel
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. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development and the chance to work with cutting-edge composite materials in a collaborative culture that values teamwork and excellence. Join us to be part of a global leader in advanced composites technology, where your contributions will directly impact the aerospace industry and help shape the future of manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨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, 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
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 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
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Hexcel, 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 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.
