Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead improvement projects and foster a culture of continuous enhancement in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a century-old international food manufacturer committed to innovation and employee development.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for personal growth, challenges, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values your input and invests in your future.
- Qualifications: Experience in Lean methodology and strong communication skills are essential; FMCG experience is a plus.
- Other info: Apply by 23rd June for a chance to join a thriving team!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Kaizen is recruiting an Operational Excellence Manager for an international food manufacturer established for over a century, with sites across Europe and over 5000 people. Their food manufacturing plant in the heart of Worcestershire is ambitious, growing fast and is investing in their people and their facility. Having invested close to £15m on new equipment and automation in recent years, they are increasing factory capacity and increasing shifts to cope with demand.
Reporting into the Site Manager, working closely with the production, maintenance, quality and NPD functions, whilst being a key member of the Group Operational Excellence network, you will facilitate and co-ordinate teams to execute improvement projects. You will be pivotal in moving all site improvement projects forward and developing a best in class culture that is focused on continuous improvement in everything they do.
- You will identify best practice in the operation and care of process/equipment, utilising appropriate lean manufacturing tools.
- To drive in and sustain improvement, you will need to be a strong trainer and coach with a mentor approach with site team members at all levels in the organisation.
- You will develop, analyse and track site metrics to identify and drive through improvement opportunities in the areas of efficiency, capacity, productivity, cost and quality e.g TPM, NPD, CAPEX, Cycle Times, SOPs.
What we are looking for:
- Proven track record in implementing Lean methodology and leading successful Operational Excellence programmes in manufacturing environments (experience in the FMCG sector is a bonus but not a necessity).
- Effective facilitator with a motivational coaching approach and strong all round communication skills.
- Proactive problem solver who is cost orientated with strong numerical skills.
- Team Builder and collaborator.
- Influencing – having impact, showing empathy, and convincing an audience.
What’s in it for you? Our client is an innovative, forward-looking business that continues to make significant investment in the Worcestershire facility, allowing it to grow and securing its future. They believe in inspiring their people and encourage personal development and growth. They know that good people need challenge and variety, and they’re big enough to offer you enough challenges to last an entire career. They are always changing, growing and questioning, which is why so many people stay with them for so long.
Are you the one we're looking for? Apply now for more information. The shortlist date is week commencing 23rd June, so if you have not heard back from us before then please assume you have been unsuccessful.
Contact Detail:
Kaizen Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Excellence Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Lean methodology and operational excellence principles. Being able to discuss specific tools and techniques you've used in previous roles will demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food manufacturing sector, especially those who have experience in operational excellence. Engaging with industry groups or forums can provide insights and connections that may help you stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your coaching and mentoring skills. Think of examples where you've successfully trained teams or individuals, as this role requires a strong focus on developing others and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent investments and projects. Understanding their current initiatives and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate how your skills can directly contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Excellence Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Lean methodology and any previous roles in operational excellence. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to implement improvement projects in manufacturing environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for continuous improvement and how your coaching and facilitation skills can benefit the team. Mention your problem-solving abilities and how you can contribute to the company's growth.
Highlight Relevant Metrics: When detailing your past experiences, include specific metrics that showcase your success in improving efficiency, productivity, or quality. This could be percentages of improvement or cost savings achieved through your initiatives.
Showcase Soft Skills: Emphasise your communication and team-building skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've influenced teams or collaborated with different departments to achieve operational goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kaizen Talent Solutions
✨Showcase Your Lean Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Lean methodology in detail. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully implemented these principles, and be ready to explain the impact they had on efficiency and productivity.
✨Demonstrate Coaching Skills
Since the role requires a strong trainer and coach, think of examples where you've mentored team members. Share how you approached training and the outcomes that resulted from your coaching efforts.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Anticipate questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Prepare to discuss real-life challenges you've faced in previous roles, the steps you took to resolve them, and the results of your actions.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
This position involves working closely with various teams. Be ready to talk about your experience in building effective teams and collaborating across departments. Use examples that showcase your influencing skills and ability to motivate others.
