Drive Operational Excellence: Head of Production (Lean Manufacturing Focus) Are you a passionate leader of people with a proven track record in Lean Manufacturing? Do you thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence? If so, we want to speak to you. We are seeking an experienced and driven Head of Production to lead and manage our clients manufacturing operations, with a key focus on Lean Manufacturing principles. This is a pivotal role where you will optimise production processes, reduce waste, improve efficiency, and ensure the highest quality standards. Head of Production - large European manufacturer (part of a major global manufacturing group) Main Board sponsorship for this position and their Lean / Operational Excellence journey A member of the site senior leadership team Strong communicator with excellent leadership and lean manufacturing implementation skills Will suit a range of levels; a seasoned candidate or someone presently progressing their career Based at UK head office production facility in Surrey / Southwest Greater London with occasional training / best practice review meetings at other sites across the world Relocation allowance available if applicable Salary Package: £75,000 - £82,500 (dependent on experience) Car Allowance Bonus (up to 35%) Excellent Benefits You will be instrumental in transforming production operations, implementing lean methodologies, and fostering a collaborative and safe working environment. You will lead a high-performing team, driving continuous improvement and supporting growth objectives. This role requires a leader to drive operational excellence by leading and coaching the production team, implementing lean strategies (Single Flow Processing, JIT, Kaizen, 5S, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping) and optimising production planning through KPI monitoring. You will focus on continuous improvement by eliminating waste, adopting advanced technologies, and managing costs effectively, while ensuring quality assurance and compliance with safety regulations. Crucial to the role is mentoring and training the team in lean practices and fostering strong collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations and product transitions. To be considered, you will possess experience in leading medium to large production teams, you will be passionate about coaching & developing your teams. You will relish spending time collaborating on the shop floor. A deep understanding of lean principles and proficiency in problem-solving and data-driven decision-making is essential, however, most importantly, we seek someone who can implement and make things happen. Other key competencies include strategic thinking, project management, strong communication, financial acumen of manufacturing cost controls and adaptability in change management. Experience with ERP and production planning software is also highly desirable. Any high-volume manufacturing sectors will be considered. Six Sigma Black Belt certification is desirable, but is not essential. OPEX Selection exclusively retains this exciting, long-term career appointment. Should you feel your skills and experience are suitable, please apply online. For further information, please contact Dan Sculthorp, Director at OPEX Selection, in complete confidence. Should you be able to recommend a highly suitable candidate please contact Dan and receive a referral bonus of £300 (in retail vouchers of your choice) if the referral leads to a successful candidate placement. OPEX Selection is a specialist in recruiting Improvement Champions; Lean, Six Sigma, Transformation and Operational Excellence professionals on a permanent and interim basis across the UK and worldwide.