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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation from traditional to cellular manufacturing, optimising processes and enhancing productivity.
- Company: Join Lucy Electric, a global leader in intelligent power distribution solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 6-month contract with potential extension and minimal travel requirements.
- Why this job: Be a change agent in a dynamic environment, driving impactful improvements and mentoring future leaders.
- Qualifications: 8-10 years in operational excellence, Six Sigma Black Belt, and proven transformation experience required.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to shape the future of manufacturing at a respected company.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
Job title: Interim Operational Excellence Manager (6-months FTC)
Business: Lucy Electric (EMS)
Location: Thame, Oxfordshire
Job Reference No: 4180
We are seeking an experienced Interim Operational Excellence Manager to lead a critical transformation initiative, converting our traditional line manufacturing operations to efficient cellular manufacturing systems. This temporary leadership role requires a proven change agent with deep expertise in continuous improvement methodologies and hands-on experience in manufacturing transformation projects.
Business Overview
Lucy Electric is an international leader in intelligent secondary power distribution products and solutions, with features such as remote operation and monitoring. Linking energy generation to consumption, the business specialises in high-performance medium and low-voltage switchgear for utility, industrial and commercial applications.
Job Dimensions
- Duration: 6-months (with potential for extension based on project needs)
- Travel: Minimal travel required
- Reporting: Reports directly to General Manager LEUK
Key Responsibilities
- Manufacturing Transformation
- Lead the strategic conversion from line manufacturing to cellular manufacturing layouts
- Design and implement optimized manufacturing cells that reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance productivity
- Conduct comprehensive value stream mapping to identify improvement opportunities and eliminate non-value-added activities
- Establish standardized work procedures and visual management systems within cellular environments
- Continuous Improvement Leadership
- Deploy Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive systematic process improvements
- Facilitate kaizen events and rapid improvement workshops focused on cellular manufacturing optimization
- Implement statistical process control and data-driven decision-making frameworks
- Develop and mentor internal continuous improvement champions and Green Belt practitioners
- Operational Excellence Implementation
- Establish KPIs and metrics to measure cellular manufacturing effectiveness
- Create sustainable improvement processes that embed continuous improvement into daily operations
- Design and implement total productive maintenance (TPM) programs within cellular structures
- Drive 5S implementation and workplace organization initiatives
- Change Management & Leadership
- Lead cross-functional teams through the manufacturing transformation process
- Communicate transformation vision and progress to all organizational levels
- Manage stakeholder expectations and secure buy-in for operational changes
- Develop training programs to upskill workforce for cellular manufacturing operations
Qualifications, Knowledge, And Experience
Minimum:
- Experience & Background
- Minimum 8-10 years of operational excellence experience in manufacturing environments
- Proven track record of successfully leading line-to-cell manufacturing transformations
- Demonstrated expertise in implementing Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies
- Experience managing interim or project-based operational improvement initiatives
- Technical Expertise
- Six Sigma Black Belt certification required (Master Black Belt preferred)
- Advanced knowledge of Lean tools including value stream mapping, cellular design, pull systems, and flow optimization
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software and process improvement tools
- Understanding of manufacturing systems, capacity planning, and production scheduling
- Leadership & Communication
- Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
- Excellent facilitation and training capabilities for diverse audiences
- Proven ability to influence and drive change without direct authority
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven approach
Desirable
- Master\’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
- Experience in similar industry sector or manufacturing environment
- Knowledge of ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems MES
- Previous interim management or consulting experience
- Additional certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Change Management, or Project Management
Job Details
- Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job function: Management and Manufacturing
- Industries: Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing
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Interim Operational Excellence Manager employer: Lucy Electric
Contact Detail:
Lucy Electric Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Operational Excellence Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the manufacturing and operational excellence sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who work at Lucy Electric or similar companies. Building these connections can give you insights into the company culture and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in cellular manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies. Being able to discuss recent advancements or case studies during interviews can demonstrate your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your previous successes in leading manufacturing transformations. Have specific examples ready that highlight your use of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as well as the measurable outcomes of your initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Lucy Electric's current projects and challenges. Understanding their business model and recent developments will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills can directly benefit their operational goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Operational Excellence Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in operational excellence and manufacturing transformation. Focus on specific achievements related to Lean methodologies and Six Sigma that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your leadership skills and experience in managing change within manufacturing environments. Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you have successfully led similar initiatives.
Highlight Relevant Certifications: Clearly list your Six Sigma Black Belt certification and any other relevant qualifications. This will help showcase your technical expertise and commitment to continuous improvement methodologies.
Showcase Your Change Management Skills: Provide examples of how you have effectively communicated transformation visions and managed stakeholder expectations in previous roles. This is crucial for the Interim Operational Excellence Manager position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lucy Electric
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
As an Interim Operational Excellence Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead change effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed transformation initiatives, particularly in manufacturing settings.
✨Highlight Your Lean and Six Sigma Expertise
Make sure to discuss your Six Sigma Black Belt certification and any relevant Lean methodologies you've implemented. Be ready to explain how these tools have helped you achieve operational excellence in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific manufacturing processes and continuous improvement techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of value stream mapping, cellular design, and statistical process control to confidently answer technical queries.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Communication Skills
Since this role involves leading cross-functional teams, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you communicate with diverse audiences. Share examples of how you've influenced stakeholders and secured buy-in for operational changes.
