Operational Excellence Manager

Job DescriptionBaker Recruitment Group is proud to partner with a highly respected industry leader in their search for an Operational Excellence Manager. This pivotal role will drive continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and process standardisation across both service and product delivery functions.The successful candidate will lead lean initiatives, enhance process flow, strengthen quality, reduce waste, and champion a culture of safety and performance excellence. Working cross-functionally with Planning, Procurement, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Project Management, this individual will ensure seamless delivery and consistent high standards across the business. They will also play a key role in training teams and embedding new processes company-wide.Key ResponsibilitiesContinuous Improvement & Lean LeadershipLead the development and deployment of Lean programs (5S, Kaizen, VSM, standard work, visual management).Identify bottlenecks and drive process improvements to increase profitability without sacrificing quality.Conduct RCA investigations and support CAPA implementation.Operational Strategy & Performance Management * Develop and monitor KPIs across safety, quality, delivery, and cost. * Analyze operational trends and implement improvement plans. * Support daily/weekly/monthly operational reviews and ensure accountability. * Cost Reduction & Profitability * Identify cost-out opportunities while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and service. * Champion SOP standardization across the business. * Implement KPIs and procedures to track cost reduction progress in line with budget targets.Quality & Safety EnhancementCollaborate across teams to reduce defects, rework, and double-handling.Support safety initiatives and hazard reduction through better processes and training.Promote a Zero Defect and First-Time-Right culture.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with project delivery teams to ensure operational readiness.Work with Supply Chain to optimize inventory, material flow, and supplier performance.Coach and train staff in Lean tools and continuous improvement behaviors.Project Leadership * Lead cross-functional improvement projects with defined milestones, business cases, and ROI. * Manage change and communicate impacts effectively. * Support digital transformation (ERP, production analytics, IoT-based tracking).QualificationsEducation * Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, Operations Management, MBA, or related field. * Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt strongly preferred. * Agile or PRINCE2 certification preferred.Experience * 5+ years in operational excellence or continuous improvement roles. * Background in manufacturing and product/service delivery environments. * Proven success implementing Lean tools in production and service contexts. * Strong experience in workflow mapping, capacity planning, and data-driven improvement.Skills & Competencies * Deep expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and CI methodologies. * Strong analytical, problem-solving, and facilitation skills. * Excellent communication and change-management capability. * Ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams. * Proficiency with ERP, MES, and BI tools (Power BI, Tableau). * Highly organized, results-driven, and detail-focused. * Strong leadership presence and coaching ability. * Understanding of P&L management. * Passion for safety, quality, and operational excellence.Success IndicatorsIncreased EBITDA and retained profit.Improved throughput and reduced cycle times.Lower scrap, rework, and warranty claims.Higher on-time delivery and project execution performance.Strong workforce engagement in CI initiatives.A sustainable Lean culture embedded across daily operations.If you are a driven operational excellence leader seeking a high-impact role within a forward-thinking organisation, Baker Recruitment Group would love to hear from you.Apply now to join a business committed to continuous improvement and long-term success