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- Tasks: Drive sustainable performance improvements and profitability across multiple sites.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on operational excellence in the food production industry.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real impact, competitive salary, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborate with senior leaders and empower teams for success.
- Why this job: Shape operational excellence and deliver meaningful results in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in live production and continuous improvement; strong analytical skills.
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 Preston employer: Pilgrims Europe
Contact Detail:
Pilgrims Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Excellence Specialist in Preston
✨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 researching the company and its operational strategies. Show us you understand their goals and how you can help achieve them. Tailor your examples to highlight your experience in continuous improvement and problem-solving.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings! Keep an eye on our website and apply directly. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from being proactive and showing your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your passion for operational excellence!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Excellence Specialist in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Operational Excellence Specialist. Highlight your experience in continuous improvement and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about operational excellence and how you can make a difference at StudySmarter. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
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 to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Know Your Operational Excellence
Make sure you understand the principles of Operational Excellence and how they apply to the role. Brush up on GAP management, KPI frameworks, and the Management Pillar. Being able to discuss these concepts confidently will show that you're serious about the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your experience in continuous improvement and problem-solving. Highlight any relevant projects you've led or been a part of, especially in live production or feed mill environments, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Come prepared with questions that show your interest in the company’s operational strategies and challenges. Inquire about their current initiatives in benchmarking and best practices, or how they measure success in their Operational Excellence efforts. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your strategic thinking.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain complex ideas simply, and don’t forget to listen actively during the interview. Engaging in a two-way conversation will help you connect better with the interviewers.