What is the job? For this role, we need someone who has an expertise in data analytics, reporting and MRP/ERP systems. Collaboration, working with cross-functional teams in finance, operations, production; combining data capture from the manufacturing processes along with data within the ERP system. This role will support production leaders at all levels to identify bottlenecks, operational waste and target areas for improvement. Reporting provided will influence lean projects across the organisation, allow production management to make informed decisions to drive quality, productivity and efficiency improvements thereby optimising value stream performance Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00am – 4.30pm What is essential to us… Required skills, knowledge and abilities: · An honours degree or equivalent. · Strong numerical, analytical and data interpretation skills. · Excellent visual, written, and verbal communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams. · Strong organisational skills, ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. · Attention to detail with precision and care in handling data to ensure accuracy. · Proficiency with spreadsheet software, reconciliation tools, other accounting software, Microsoft Office and other IT tools. · Familiarity with MRP and ERP systems. Desirable skills and knowledge: · Experience of statistical analysis using Excel, Minitab or other similar software. · Familiarity with value stream mapping and other process mapping techniques. · Experience working in lean manufacturing environments and/or lean supply chains. · Knowledge of lean tools and methodologies such as JIT, levelled pull and flow, takt time, kanban, cell design. · Familiarity with problem solving and Kaizen tools such as 5Y, 8D, A3, PDCA, Ishikawa, mind maps. · Involvement in driving improvements within office and manufacturing environments to eliminate waste and improve efficiency. · Experience of working in cellular light manufacturing and heavy manufacturing flow line environments. · Understanding of supply chain dynamics and how they impact material flow through value streams. · Experience with business intelligence environments such as Power BI and Python for advanced data analysis. · SQL for managing databases. Who we are? Thorlabs is a global, industry leading optical technologies company. We are experts in the design and manufacture or a range of innovative photonics products. We use these products in manufacturing and research, from fibre optics to piezo motors. We are the gold standard with optics laboratories worldwide. There are now 22 facilities across the world in 9 countries. Here in Ely, we are responsible for the Motion Control and Optical Tables product line. Where you will be working? It’s a hybrid role, working in our new purpose-built facility in Witchford, Ely as well as your home. Our purpose-built facility is just 12 miles from Cambridge, within the beautiful mediaeval city of Ely. There are train and bus links to Ely from Kings Cross and Liverpool Street London, and our site is within distance of Ely train station and Ely Bus station. Requirements What we would like you to do/ to see… · Work closely with cross-functional teams (such as production teams, supply chain management, quality assurance and other stakeholders) to improve overall value stream flow and operational efficiency. o Support value stream mapping to document end to end value stream flows for products and services. o Analyse costs associated with entire value streams, from raw materials to finished products, identifying areas where costs can be reduced. o Use numerical skills and statistical analysis to look for patterns within the data and identify inefficiencies, capacity bottlenecks and waste in processes and recommend areas for improvement. o Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and apply principles from Lean and Six Sigma to streamline processes and eliminate waste. · Collaborate with manufacturing leaders to support improvement activities. o Update daily process performance boards and generate weekly value stream income statements to support manufacturing leaders in their continuous improvement activities. o Collect data specific to manufacturing value streams and associated processes, making insights accessible to others through graphs, charts, tables and reports. o Help prepare budgets and forecasts specific to value streams, planning for future personnel and equipment requirements, aligning financial goals with operational objectives. · Prepare financial reports for senior leadership related to value stream performance. o Track key performance indicators relating to production including cost, lead times, inventory, efficiency and quality. · Colloborate with Accounts team to implement process changes that would facilitate more efficient and accurate value stream financial performance analysis. What will you get? At Thorlabs there are lots of opportunities for inhouse customised training and development that accelerates your career progression. We have free onsite parking, free refreshments, as well as an entertainment area in our large canteen for your enjoyment. And the benefits are? Competitive Salary to attract the best, plus an excellent benefits package including pension, health care, 25 days holiday plus public holidays. Job Reference: THOR-VC-1051 This is a rolling campaign, so we will actively interview applicants. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. We welcome applications from persons who are over 18 years old. This is a legal requirement, further information is here School leaving age - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) We would encourage all internal applicants to inform their line managers of their interest in this position. Benefits -Contributed Pension Scheme -Group Life Cover -Private Health Care -Group Income Protection & more. Please apply through the Apply for this job button or send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter and your salary expectations to: Human Resources at Thorlabs Ltd, 204 Lancaster Way Business Park, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3NX or e-mail recruitmentthorlabs.com. In line with the requirements of the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all applicants must have a valid permission to enter or remain in the UK with no condition that prevents them from working in the UK. Documented evidence of such permission will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.