Operations Manager

Overview

In this role you will lead a manufacturing team on the Isle of Wight to deliver safety, quality, delivery, cost and cash targets through disciplined use of the Lean Operating Model. You will drive operational excellence in your area, actively solve problems, and foster a high‑performing, open culture. You’ll create a Great Place To Work by empowering team members and driving continuous improvement. This opportunity combines leadership, lean thinking, and shopfloor execution in a globally recognised aerospace business.

Pay / Benefits

• fantastic challenges
• great training in the industry
• culture of diversity and inclusion
• accessible recruitment process
• Great Workplace Culture Award
• supportive environment for development

Responsibilities

• Model and reinforce the GKN Aerospace Great Place To Work culture within the team
• Hold individuals accountable to company culture while coaching performance gaps
• Develop team members and provide learning opportunities
• Maintain a safety-first environment and comply with Health, Safety and Environmental policies
• Lead teams to understand and achieve PSQDCC targets for customers and stakeholders
• Drive Lean Operating Model deployment across the area
• Engage in Go to Gemba problem solving to resolve 95% of issues at the zone
• Ensure Daily Management and Standardised Work are followed
• Manage zone budget and make difficult decisions as needed
• Collaborate with other Team Leaders for optimal area performance
• Adhere to legal/regulatory requirements and clarify responsibilities to staff

Key requirements

• Experience in aerospace or similar manufacturing environment
• Proven leadership of high-performing teams
• Strong adherence to standardised work and a track record of Kaizen implementation
• Self-motivated with a drive to exceed targets
• Ability to work with multiple stakeholders
• Effective and influential communication skills

• leadership
• communication
• coaching
• Lean Operating Model (LOM)
• Kaizen
• Go to Gemba

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