At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations and drive continuous improvement in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Mars, a purpose-driven company focused on building a better tomorrow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits, and access to Mars University for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping operational performance and fostering a culture of excellence.
- Qualifications: Experience in production management with a strong background in TPM and Lean methodologies.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Operations Improvement Manager to join our Operations team at Mars Birstall Care & Treats, reporting directly to the site Operations Manager. This is a leadership role responsible for delivering daily operational performance while driving a strong Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Continuous Improvement culture across the production teams. The role combines hands‑on operational leadership with strategic improvement, ensuring production runs safely, efficiently, and reliably while continuously raising standards across people, processes, and performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership
- Lead day‑to‑day production operations to deliver against safety, quality, service, and cost targets.
- Ensure production plans are executed efficiently to meet customer demand and service levels.
- Work closely with planning, engineering, and supply chain teams to optimise production flow.
- Continuous Improvement & TPM
- Drive the deployment and maturity of TPM pillars, particularly Autonomous Maintenance and Focused Improvement.
- Lead structured problem‑solving and root cause analysis to eliminate recurring losses.
- Identify and deliver productivity, waste reduction, and efficiency improvements across the production area.
- Champion Lean manufacturing principles including visual management, standard work, and performance routines.
- Build CI capability within frontline teams and develop a culture of ownership and accountability.
- People & Culture
- Coach and develop production leaders to build a high‑performance culture.
- Foster strong engagement and accountability across teams.
- Support succession planning and capability development within the production function.
- Performance & Delivery
- Own key manufacturing KPIs including Safety, Quality, TRS and waste performance.
- Deliver measurable improvements in operational efficiency and reliability.
- Support site strategic initiatives and longer‑term operational capability development.
About You
- Proven experience in a Production Manager / Manufacturing Manager role within FMCG or high‑volume manufacturing.
- Strong background in TPM, Lean Manufacturing, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Track record of delivering operational performance and CI improvements simultaneously.
- Experienced in leading and developing front line leaders.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability with a data‑driven approach.
- Comfortable balancing strategic improvement initiatives with the realities of day‑to‑day factory operations.
What can you expect from Mars?
- Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by The Five Principles.
- Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
- A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in‑house Mars University.
- A leadership role with real influence over operational performance.
- Opportunity to shape and embed a strong TPM and Continuous Improvement culture.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
Mars is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities, long‑term health conditions, or who are neurodiverse during the application and recruitment process.
Operations Improvement Manager in Batley employer: Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates
Contact Detail:
Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Improvement Manager in Batley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at Mars. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to operations improvement and TPM. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your experience effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for continuous improvement! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've driven change in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to fostering a strong CI culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest job openings and updates directly from us at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Improvement Manager in Batley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Improvement Manager role. Highlight your experience in TPM, Lean Manufacturing, and Continuous Improvement methodologies. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
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 you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific examples of your past successes in operational leadership.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t forget to showcase your analytical and problem-solving capabilities. We love candidates who can demonstrate a data-driven approach to overcoming challenges and improving processes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the operations at Mars Birstall. Familiarise yourself with their production processes, safety standards, and how they implement Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their operational goals.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Improvement Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in previous roles. Highlight your experience with Lean manufacturing principles and any successful projects where you've reduced waste or improved efficiency. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to their culture of improvement.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to tackle some real-world problem-solving scenarios during the interview. Brush up on structured problem-solving techniques and be prepared to walk through your thought process. This will showcase your analytical skills and your ability to address operational challenges effectively.
✨Emphasise Leadership and Team Development
Since this role involves coaching and developing production leaders, come prepared with examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Discuss your approach to fostering engagement and accountability, as well as any strategies you've used to build a high-performance culture.