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- Tasks: Lead and optimise manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Company: Pioneering engineering firm at the forefront of advanced material technologies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, bonus, and extensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Shape the future of manufacturing while working with cutting-edge materials for global industries.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in fast-paced manufacturing, with expertise in continuous improvement methodologies.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent progression opportunities in a state-of-the-art environment.
Join a pioneering engineering and manufacturing business at the forefront of next-generation material technologies. Our client develops and produces advanced materials that enable higher performance, lighter weight, and greater durability for global Aerospace, Automotive and Defence customers. As the business continues to scale, we are seeking a hands-on, driven Head of Operations to lead the manufacturing, process engineering, and continuous improvement functions.
As Head of Manufacturing Operations, you will take full ownership of end-to-end operational performance across multiple manufacturing teams. Your mandate is to build and lead high-performing operations and engineering capability that consistently delivers to customer requirements in a fast-moving, technically challenging environment. You will:
- Lead and develop the Manufacturing Operations, Process Engineering and Continuous Improvement teams.
- Drive operational delivery across safety, quality, output, cost and service metrics.
- Embed a culture of Continuous Improvement, using CI tools and lean methodologies to enhance process capability and manufacturing efficiency.
- Ensure day-to-day production meets customer demand, resolving issues quickly and proactively.
- Champion operational excellence, standardised processes, and data-driven decision-making.
- Collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Commercial teams to ensure smooth introduction of new materials and manufacturing technologies.
- Play a key role in shaping operational strategy as the company scales capacity, capability, and automation.
We are seeking a dynamic, practical leader with the gravitas to drive performance and the credibility to gain trust across the SLT peer group as well as on the shop floor. You will have:
- A proven track record leading Operations within a fast paced and varied manufacturing environment.
- Strong Continuous Improvement expertise, with hands-on experience applying lean, six sigma or similar methodologies.
- Demonstrable success improving operational performance, efficiency, and process stability.
- The ability to lead managers, engineers, and shop-floor teams with clarity, energy and accountability.
- A practical, "roll-your-sleeves-up" leadership style-comfortable being present on the factory floor.
- Experience operating in a highly regulated or high-precision sector (Aerospace, Automotive, Defence, or similar).
- Strong communication skills and a customer-focused mindset.
Be part of a fast-growing organisation developing breakthrough materials for world-leading customers. Lead and shape operational excellence across a state-of-the-art manufacturing environment. Influence strategy while remaining close to engineering and production. Excellent opportunities for progression as the business continues to scale.
To apply in confidence and to initiate an informal discussion, please submit a fully CV online detailing your current remuneration package and availability quoting job reference 10212.
Head of Manufacturing Operations in Cheltenham employer: LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
Contact Detail:
LORD SEARCH & SELECTION Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Manufacturing Operations in Cheltenham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. We recommend practising common interview questions and tailoring your answers to highlight your experience in manufacturing operations and continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on leadership style! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've led teams on the shop floor and driven operational excellence. We want to see that practical approach in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Manufacturing Operations in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in manufacturing operations and continuous improvement, using keywords from the listing. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve accomplished! Use specific examples of how you've improved operational performance or led teams to success. Numbers and metrics can really make your application stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your leadership style fits with our culture. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the company’s operations and the specific role of Head of Manufacturing Operations. Familiarise yourself with their advanced materials and how they impact industries like Aerospace and Automotive. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your hands-on leadership approach and how you've successfully led teams in fast-paced environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented Continuous Improvement methodologies like lean or six sigma to enhance operational performance.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your experience working closely with cross-functional teams, such as Engineering and Quality. Discuss how you’ve fostered collaboration to ensure smooth introductions of new materials and technologies, which is crucial for this role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have insightful questions ready that demonstrate your understanding of the challenges in manufacturing operations. Ask about their current strategies for scaling capacity and how they measure success in operational excellence. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their future.
