At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead powder manufacturing operations in the UK and Sweden, driving excellence and growth.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovation and operational excellence in manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a strategic role with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in manufacturing, strong communication, and strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Director to lead manufacturing operations across our powder production facilities in the UK and Sweden.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Operations Director will provide strategic and operational leadership across manufacturing, planning, logistics, engineering and maintenance functions.
The Operations Director will be accountable for ensuring safe, efficient and profitable operations while driving operational excellence, organisational capability and long-term business growth.
ABOUT YOU
The right candidate will have significant senior leadership experience in manufacturing or industrial environments.
Proven success leading multi-site operations.
Experience delivering operational excellence and business performance improvements.
Strong background in organisational change management, continuous improvement, managing significant operational budgets and capital expenditure programs will be essential, alongside an ability to lead large, diverse teams through growth and transformation.
Experience in a powder metallurgy, advanced materials, metals or related manufacturing sector would be an advantage but not essential.
To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will need to be a strategic thinker, have commercial awareness, customer focus, a results-driven mindset and have strong communication and influencing skills to lead the business through a period of change and growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Leadership
- Lead all powder manufacturing operations across the UK and Sweden facilities.
- Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
- Drive operational excellence through continuous improvement and best-practice implementation.
- Ensure achievement of manufacturing, quality, delivery and cost performance targets.
- Standardise operational processes and KPI management across both locations.
- Represent Operations as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team.
- Health, Safety, Environment and Quality
- Champion a strong "Safety First" culture across all operational activities.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety, environmental and quality standards and regulations.
- Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and operational discipline.
- Engineering, Maintenance and Capital Investment
- Lead engineering and maintenance functions to ensure asset reliability and operational efficiency.
- Develop and deliver capital investment programmes supporting business growth and productivity improvements.
- Support automation, digitalisation and technology deployment initiatives across both sites.
- Supply Chain and Business Performance
- Oversee production planning, logistics and material flow to ensure excellent customer service.
- Contribute to budgets, forecasts and strategic business planning.
- Deliver productivity improvements, working capital optimisation and cost reduction initiatives.
- Ensure robust financial controls, governance and risk management processes are maintained.
- Leadership and People Development
- Lead, coach and develop site leadership teams across both manufacturing locations.
- Build organisational capability through succession planning, talent development and workforce planning.
- Foster employee engagement and create a high-performing culture focused on collaboration and results.
- Support key customer engagements, audits and strategic business relationships.
This role is based in Neath, South Wales. Regular travel to the site in Sandviken, Sweden is required.
Be unique, we like it that way!
We want to attract, develop and maintain the best people from all walks of life, and so we embrace a diverse workforce.
We believe that diversity of experience, perspective and background leads to a better environment for our employees, our business and our customers.
Powders Operations Director in Neath employer: Sandvik
As an Operations Director at our powder production facilities in Neath, South Wales and Sandviken, Sweden, you will join a forward-thinking company that prioritises safety, operational excellence, and employee development. We foster a collaborative work culture that values diversity and encourages continuous improvement, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and leadership development. With a commitment to innovation and a strong focus on achieving business objectives, we offer a rewarding environment where your strategic vision can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Powders Operations Director in Neath
✨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 Sandvik, 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 Powders Operations Director in Neath
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 Sandvik 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 Sandvik
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Sandvik, 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 Sandvik 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.
