Head of Operational Excellence The Head of OpEx is responsible for developing and implementing the company's operational excellence strategy in alignment with strategic goals. This includes identifying and analysing processes for improvement, leading projects using Lean and Six Sigma, and monitoring their effectiveness. Key responsibilities include establishing KPIs, regularly reviewing performance, and implementing corrective actions to address gaps.

The Head of OpEx will lead a team of OpEx professionals, providing coaching on operational excellence principles and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Effective change management is essential, involving stakeholder communication and addressing resistance. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and senior leadership is key to aligning and integrating OpEx efforts.

The role also focuses on cost reduction and operational efficiency, ensuring quality standards and regulatory compliance, and implementing quality improvements. The Director will identify and mitigate operational risks, leverage technology to enhance efficiency, and stay updated on industry trends. Promoting a culture of continuous improvement and maintaining documentation of OpEx initiatives, along with regular reporting to senior management, are key aspects of the role.

What you’ll do 

The Head of OpEx is accountable for driving operational efficiency, improving performance, and supporting the overall strategic goals of the organisation.

Strategic Planning and Implementation

• Develop and implement the company's operational excellence strategy.
• Align OpEx initiatives with the company's strategic goals and objectives.

Process Improvement

• Identify and analyse processes to determine areas for improvement.
• Lead process improvement projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies.
• Monitor and measure the effectiveness of process improvements.

Performance Management

• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track operational performance.
• Regularly review and report on operational performance.
• Implement corrective actions to address performance gaps.

Team Leadership and Development

• Build and lead a team of OpEx professionals.
• Provide coaching and training to team members on OpEx principles and tools.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organisation.

Change Management

• Manage change initiatives to ensure smooth implementation and adoption.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders about changes and their benefits.
• Address and mitigate resistance to change.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive OpEx initiatives.
• Engage with senior leadership to secure buy-in and support for OpEx projects.
• Work closely with other departments to ensure alignment and integration of OpEx efforts.

Cost Reduction and Efficiency

• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational efficiency.
• Implement cost-saving measures while maintaining or improving quality and customer satisfaction.

Quality Management

• Ensure that operational processes meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Implement quality improvement initiatives to enhance product and service quality.

Risk Management

• Identify and assess operational risks.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.

Technology and Innovation

• Leverage technology to enhance operational processes and efficiency.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in operational excellence.

Continuous Improvement

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
• Encourage employees to identify and implement improvement opportunities.

Reporting and Documentation

• Maintain accurate documentation of OpEx projects and initiatives.
• Provide regular updates and reports to senior management on OpEx activities and outcomes.

What you’ll bring: 

• Proven experience (5+years) in a manufacturing or distribution centre / operational environment. 
• Proven experience in large scale change management, lean transformation and Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies.
• Strong experience with managing large scale operations with multiple management tiers.
• Demonstrates strong track record of team leadership with a large scale rapid and process driven environment.
• Relevant experience of communicating with a wide range of stakeholders, from peers to upper leadership.
• Relevant experience in performing advanced data analysis with tools like Excel / GSheets / Grafana / Tableau and using the data to influence business decisions.
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, collaborating effectively across departments.
• A long-term mindset, committed to business impact.
• Fluent in German and English.
• You are willing to work in 3-shifts operation, are highly motivated, flexible and a team player

What we offer: 

• Modern and comfortable working space with diverse co-workers in Barleben near Magdeburg
• Discount for HelloFresh boxes
• Extensive Onboarding
• Competitive salary and shift allowances30 days of vacations
• Social events
• Discounted fitness offers with our Urban Sports Club and John Reed partners
• Well-being initiatives in cooperation with Headspace and SpillCompany pension scheme
• Monthly transportation budget via NAVIT (20€ + 25€ ÖPNV)
• Selgros cardPersonal safety equipment
• Cafeteria on site