Head of Operations

Overview

In this role you will lead manufacturing operations at Hexcel’s Duxford site to deliver safe, efficient and compliant production aligned with customer and business goals. You will shape and execute operational strategies to hit targets across production, quality, cost, delivery and safety. By driving continuous improvement and Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, you will elevate performance and cross-functional collaboration. You will provide strategic leadership for Quality Assurance and Control and foster a culture of safety and accountability. This is a hands-on, impact-driven leadership role at a global composites leader with a strong emphasis on quality and transformation.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing operations to ensure safe, efficient, compliant production meeting customer and business requirements
• Develop and deliver operational strategies to achieve targets for production, quality, cost, delivery, safety and performance
• Drive continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, root cause analysis, waste reduction, and operational excellence initiatives
• Provide strategic leadership for Quality Assurance and Quality Control ensuring compliance with standards
• Maintain and improve the Quality Management System (QMS) and lead audits, investigations, and corrective actions
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimise manufacturing performance, resource utilisation and business growth
• Lead workforce capability, training, succession planning and leadership development
• Champion health, safety, environmental and compliance culture ensuring regulatory compliance
• Provide visible leadership to Manufacturing, Quality, Training and Continuous Improvement teams
• Manage operational budgets and KPIs to improve profitability through efficiency and strategic investment

Key requirements

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management or related discipline
• Significant senior leadership experience in a composite materials or chemical manufacturing environment
• Proven success leading integrated manufacturing teams and cross-functional collaboration
• Track record of improving safety, quality, productivity, cost efficiency and customer service
• Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and continuous improvement
• Strong understanding of QMS, regulatory compliance, audits, root cause analysis and quality labs
• Ability to develop and deliver operational strategies aligned to business objectives
• Strong commercial and financial acumen including budget management and cost control
• Experience leading organizational change and performance improvement initiatives
• Excellent leadership, communication, stakeholder management, coaching and talent development

• leadership
• stakeholder management
• coaching and talent development
• Lean Manufacturing
• Six Sigma
• Quality Management Systems (QMS)

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