Business Unit Leader - CFM56 in Cardiff

The CFM56 Business Leader is a senior operations role accountable for the CFM56 Product Line. You will own end-to-end performance for this area, delivering outstanding safety, quality, delivery and cost while leading operational excellence and transformation aligned with the needs of the business and our customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Own operational performance across the CFM56 Product Line, ensuring SQDC commitments are achieved and exceeded.
• Lead a large workforce through a team of operations and front‑line leaders, partnering closely with enabling functions to meet customer, regulatory and business requirements.
• Drive transformation of the business unit, providing direction and support to deploy and sustain improvements in operating model, flow, and productivity across the product line.
• Use FLIGHT DECK principles to embed a continuous improvement culture, leveraging data and standard work to improve flow, productivity, on‑time delivery and first‑time yield.
• Shape and execute strategy for the business unit in alignment with plant and product line strategies, translating this into clear plans, priorities and metrics.
• Build a strong leadership pipeline by coaching and developing operations and front‑line leaders, while fostering an inclusive, high‑performance culture.
• Ensure compliance and governance, maintaining a strong EHS culture and readiness for internal and external audits.

Required Experience

• Significant experience in manufacturing and plant/operations management, ideally in aerospace, aviation, MRO, or other highly regulated industries.
• Demonstrated success leading large operational teams and complex value streams, with clear SQDC results.
• Proven experience leading change at scale, including lean deployment, operating model improvement, flowline implementation, or broader business transformation.
• Knowledge level typically equivalent to a Master’s degree, or secondary education with substantial relevant experience.

Desired Characteristics

• Strong, credible leader with the presence to influence across all levels of the organization.
• Excellent communicator who can engage shop floor teams and senior leaders with clarity and impact.
• Data‑driven decision‑maker with a track record of resolving complex operational challenges and sustaining improvements.
• Deep understanding of lean / continuous improvement and practical application in a high‑paced operations environment.
• Proven ability to build and develop high‑performing teams, with a focus on succession and talent growth.
• Collaborative, inclusive style aligned with GE Aerospace behaviors and values.

GE Aerospace Wales is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, colour, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability or other characteristics protected by law. GE Aerospace Wales is a Disability Confident and Committed employer, and welcomes applications from disabled candidates. We are dedicated to ensuring our recruitment processes are accessible to all.

Security Clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. If BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, the candidate may not be eligible for the role and/or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security.

Additional Information

Relocation assistance is provided.