Interim Operational Excellence Manager

Thame, England, United Kingdom

8/6/2025

Internal Job Title: Interim Operational Excellence Manager (6-months FTC)

Business: Lucy Electric (EMS)

Location: Thame, Oxfordshire

Job Reference No: 4180

Job Purpose:

We are seeking an experienced Interim Operational Excellence Manager to lead a critical transformation initiative, converting our traditional line manufacturing operations to efficient cellular manufacturing systems. This temporary leadership role requires a proven change agent with deep expertise in continuous improvement methodologies and hands-on experience in manufacturing transformation projects.

Business Overview:

Lucy Electric is an international leader in intelligent secondary power distribution products and solutions, with features such as remote operation and monitoring. Linking energy generation to consumption, the business specialises in high-performance medium and low-voltage switchgear for utility, industrial and commercial applications.

Job Dimensions:

Duration: 6-months (with potential for extension based on project needs)

Travel: Minimal travel required

Reporting: Reports directly to General Manager LEUK

Key Responsibilities:

Manufacturing Transformation

• Lead the strategic conversion from line manufacturing to cellular manufacturing layouts
• Design and implement optimized manufacturing cells that reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance productivity
• Conduct comprehensive value stream mapping to identify improvement opportunities and eliminate non-value-added activities
• Establish standardized work procedures and visual management systems within cellular environments
  
  

Continuous Improvement Leadership

• Deploy Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive systematic process improvements
• Facilitate kaizen events and rapid improvement workshops focused on cellular manufacturing optimization
• Implement statistical process control and data-driven decision-making frameworks
• Develop and mentor internal continuous improvement champions and Green Belt practitioners
  
  

Operational Excellence Implementation

• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure cellular manufacturing effectiveness
• Create sustainable improvement processes that embed continuous improvement into daily operations
• Design and implement total productive maintenance (TPM) programs within cellular structures
• Drive 5S implementation and workplace organization initiatives
  
  

Change Management & Leadership

• Lead cross-functional teams through the manufacturing transformation process
• Communicate transformation vision and progress to all organizational levels
• Manage stakeholder expectations and secure buy-in for operational changes
• Develop training programs to upskill workforce for cellular manufacturing operations
  
  

Qualifications, Knowledge, And Experience

Minimum:

Experience & Background

• Minimum 8-10 years of operational excellence experience in manufacturing environments
• Proven track record of successfully leading line-to-cell manufacturing transformations
• Demonstrated expertise in implementing Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies
• Experience managing interim or project-based operational improvement initiatives
  
  

Technical Expertise

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification required (Master Black Belt preferred)
• Advanced knowledge of Lean tools including value stream mapping, cellular design, pull systems, and flow optimization
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and process improvement tools
• Understanding of manufacturing systems, capacity planning, and production scheduling
  
  

Leadership & Communication

• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
• Excellent facilitation and training capabilities for diverse audiences
• Proven ability to influence and drive change without direct authority
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with data-driven approach
  
  

Desirable:

• Master's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
• Experience in similar industry sector or manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES)
• Previous interim management or consulting experience
• Additional certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Change Management, or Project Management
  
  

Does this sound interesting? We would love to hear from you. Our application process is quick and easy. Apply today!