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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive performance improvements and profitability across multiple sites in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on operational excellence in the food production industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Empowerment to implement best practices in a complex, fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Shape operational excellence and deliver meaningful results while collaborating with senior leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in live production and continuous improvement; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking for an Operational Excellence Specialist to work in partnership with the Head of Operational Excellence, directing and managing the Operational Excellence Management method to drive sustainable performance improvements and profitability across our sites. This is a hands-on, influential role with ownership for delivering Operational Excellence across the Pork Live Operation, working closely with Business Unit Directors, Site Leadership Teams and functional partners.
Key Responsibilities & Measures of Success
- GAP Management
- Build site goals using the GAP tracker and KPI frameworks
- Open, manage and close Technical and Theoretical GAPs
- Operational Excellence Direction & Alignment
- Align Op Ex strategy with BU Directors and Site Leadership Teams
- Ensure alignment between business objectives and Op Ex priorities
- Management Pillar Implementation
- Lead the implementation and long-term sustainability of the Management Pillar across sites
- Coach, audit and ensure correct use of Management Pillar tools to deliver tangible improvements
- KPI & Performance Management
- Maintain a live, consolidated view of Op Ex KPIs, goals and gap closure activity
- Track progress and drive accountability across BU's and sites
- Labour Tool Ownership
- Support implementation, maintenance and optimisation of the Labour Tool
- Support monthly planning using simulators, identify new labour-reduction opportunities and drive performance improvements
- Benchmarking & Best Practice
- Lead internal and external benchmarking activities
- Identify, compare and implement best practices across processes and sites
- Project & Change Support
- Support requirements gathering, prioritisation and Fit/Gap analysis
- Partner with Procurement and Legal to support RFX processes
- Agree project costs and benefits and manage assigned project budgets and delivery against plan
Skills & Knowledge
- Essential / Highly Desirable
- Experience in Live Production (Pork Live Production highly desirable)
- Experience within a Feed Mill environment
- Proven experience in Continuous Improvement
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capability
- Demonstrated experience embedding new processes and ways of working through coaching, influence and empowerment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong presence, credibility and personal gravitas with energy, stamina and passion for delivery
Qualifications
- Degree level qualification (desirable)
- Six Sigma Certification (desirable)
- Lean Manufacturing experience
- Background within an FMCG environment (desirable)
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to make a real, measurable impact on operational performance, working across multiple sites with senior leaders and operational teams. You will be empowered to shape Operational Excellence, drive best practice and deliver meaningful business results in a complex and dynamic environment.
Operational Excellence Specialist in Northampton employer: Pilgrims Europe
Contact Detail:
Pilgrims Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Excellence Specialist in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working in operational excellence. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to operational excellence. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the role. We want you to showcase your problem-solving skills and passion for continuous improvement!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications. A quick email to express your enthusiasm can keep you top of mind for hiring managers. Remember, we love seeing candidates who are proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings and updates. Applying directly through our site not only shows your interest but also gives you a better chance of being noticed by our team. Let’s get you that Operational Excellence Specialist role!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Excellence Specialist in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operational Excellence Specialist role. Highlight your experience in Live Production and Continuous Improvement, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you're passionate about Operational Excellence and how your background aligns with our goals. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications like Six Sigma.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical capabilities, make sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive improvements in past roles. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges and delivered results through analysis.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Know Your Operational Excellence Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key principles of Operational Excellence, especially in relation to the pork live production sector. Familiarise yourself with GAP management and KPI frameworks, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've used your analytical and problem-solving skills to drive continuous improvement. Think about how you can demonstrate your experience in embedding new processes and ways of working.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since this role requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked to explain complex concepts, so being able to simplify your explanations will be a big plus.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Presence
This position involves working closely with senior leaders and site teams, so it's important to convey confidence and credibility. Prepare to discuss how you've influenced others and led initiatives in previous roles, showcasing your energy and passion for operational excellence.