Operational Excellence Manager

We produce a wide range of high-quality mineral and spring waters and soft drinks. Thanks to our state-of-the-art production equipment, we can respond flexibly to retailer demand. We offer you a dynamic work environment with plenty of development opportunities.

We are looking for:

Operational Excellence Manager

Job-ID: 19796 Working area: City: Derby, GB, DE65 5BT

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead the deployment of continuous improvement strategies across the plant. Working with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, reduce operational waste, enhance product or service quality, and foster a problem-solving culture.
• Coach employees on operational excellence tools while establishing a sustainable OPEX philosophy in line with central standards.
• Support plant leadership in strategic planning and goal-setting processes to align operational targets.
• Plant-specific implementation of OPEX initiatives using the relevant methods, e.g., Value Stream Mapping, SMED, 5S, Ishikawa.
• Incorporating plant requirements into the corporate group's overarching OPEX strategy development.
• Leading central OPEX projects to optimize processes and workflows.
• Analyse data from operational systems and on-site documentation to prepare targeted workshops and optimisation projects.
• Formulate and design comprehensive training materials and presentation content for OPEX programmes.
• Lead operational excellence initiatives across departments while identifying key areas for continuous process improvement.
• Provide regular progress reports and status updates to both plant management and central divisions.

WHO YOU ARE

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject (or equivalent role experience) coupled with 2-5 years of production environment experience.
• Expertise in Lean and OPEX methodologies, including Kaizen, DMAIC, value stream mapping, and target resolution processes.
• Highly structured, self-motivated, and analytical approach to solving complex operational challenges.
• Inspiring team player with excellent communication skills.
• Google Workspace proficiency alongside the ability to interpret operational KPIs and production data.
• Willingness to undertake occasional European travel.

OUR OFFER

• 33 days annual leave per year inclusive of Bank Holidays
• Healthcare Cash Plan after qualifying period
• Life Assurance Cover of 3 times basic salary
• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programs with access to savings & discounts
• 24/7 helpline and much more
• Contract type: Permanent
• Start Date:1 October 2026
• Working time: 37.5 hours per week
• Salary: Competitive, depending on experience