At a Glance
- Tasks: Coach and mentor frontline teams to drive operational excellence on the factory floor.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing leader focused on transformative change across EMEA.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, quarterly bonuses, car allowance, and extensive travel opportunities.
- Other info: Expect 90% travel; perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced environments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming factory operations and driving behaviour change.
- Qualifications: Proven factory leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
We are seeking a high-energy, ambitious Operational Excellence (OpEx) Coach / Manager to drive end-to-end frontline transformations across our EMEA customer base. This is not a desk job or a standard 40-hour work week. You will spend 90% of your time on the factory floor, coaching everyone from frontline operators to plant leadership on how to win using the Redzone platform. You will simultaneously manage 5 to 6 customer accounts across their 90-day engagement cycles, spending intense, targeted 4-week physical onsite deployments with each.
Key Responsibilities
- Drive Behavior Change: Coach, mentor, and influence frontline operators, supervisors, and plant managers to adopt Lean behaviours and maximize the Redzone platform.
- Execute Onsite Deployments: Lead intensive, hands-on onsite implementations, managing multiple customer accounts through high-stakes, fast-paced transformation cycles.
- Deliver Measurable ROI: Partner with plant leadership to challenge the status quo, tackle difficult site cultures, and unlock immediate productivity and efficiency gains.
- Facilitate Kaizen & Lean Rituals: Run shop-floor continuous improvement events, coaching teams on Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and Operational Excellence frameworks.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Proven Factory Leadership: Substantial hands-on experience as a Plant Manager, Production Manager, Continuous Improvement/Lean Leader, or Manufacturing Consultant. You must have run a shop floor, not just contributed to it.
- Industry Domain Expertise: Deep roots in manufacturing sectors; experience in Food & Beverage or CPG is highly preferred, though Automotive experience is valued.
- Demonstrated Agility & Growth: A proven track record of career progression and adaptive flexibility, ideally shown through successful transitions across different manufacturing environments every 2-3 years.
- Uncompromising Travel Flexibility: Willingness and hunger to sustain ~90% travel (away from home Monday morning through Friday night, minimum 42 weeks a year).
- Language Skills: Full professional fluency in English is required for all roles. Fluency in Mandarin is desired for the specialized APAC support vacancy.
- Expert Communicator: Exceptional presence with the confidence to challenge senior executives and inspire frontline operators alike.
Additional Information
- Location: Remote (EMEA Field-Based)
- Travel: ~90% (Minimum 42 weeks/year, Monday-Friday field travel)
- Compensation: £70,000 - £85,000 base salary + quarterly bonuses + car allowance
EMEA Field OpEx Coach & Plant Transformation Leader in Birmingham employer: QAD
QAD | Redzone is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As an Executive Assistant in the UK, you will be part of a fast-growing SaaS and AI company that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, providing opportunities to shape operational success while working alongside a supportive leadership team. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, QAD fosters a culture where every voice is valued, ensuring that you can contribute meaningfully to the company's mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EMEA Field OpEx Coach & Plant Transformation Leader in Birmingham
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like QAD, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace EMEA Field OpEx Coach & Plant Transformation Leader in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to QAD specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at QAD
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with QAD, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like QAD value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
