Operational Excellence Lead
Location: Greenford / Loudwater
Department: Operations
Reporting to: Senior Director - UK Operations

Overview
We are seeking an experienced Operational Excellence Lead to shape and deliver the continuous-improvement strategy across our two UK manufacturing sites. This role is pivotal in driving Lean transformation, strengthening operational performance, and embedding a culture where quality, safety, and efficiency are at the heart of everything we do.

As a change leader, you will champion 5S and Lean methodologies, guide cross-functional teams through structured problem-solving, and deliver measurable improvements aligned to our strategic business objectives. If you are motivated by making a tangible impact and enabling teams to perform at their best, this is a highly visible and rewarding opportunity.

What You&8217;ll Do
Continuous Improvement & Lean Leadership
* Champion 5S, Lean principles, and operational discipline to build a culture of continuous improvement.
* Lead structured problem-solving activities (A3, 8D, 5 Whys, 3C) to drive sustainable corrective and preventive actions.
* Conduct value stream mapping to identify bottlenecks and prioritise improvement initiatives.

Performance & Data Insight
* Establish operational and quality baselines collect, analyse, and visualise performance data to highlight improvement opportunities.
* Implement visual management systems (SQDCP) across production, logistics, planning, production engineering, and test areas.
* Provide clear and timely reporting on progress, impact, and sustainability of improvement actions.

Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings
* Lead and deliver operational cost-reduction projects (VCP - Value Creation Plans) using Lean tools to generate measurable financial benefits.
* Standardise and harmonise core processes across both sites, ensuring scalability and best-practice deployment.

What You&8217;ll Bring
* Demonstrated experience in Operational Excellence or Continuous Improvement within aerospace, defence, or complex manufacturing environments.
* Strong expertise in Lean methodologies (5S, Kaizen) and structured problem-solving tools Lean Practitioner or Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is desirable.
* Ability to lead change across multiple sites and influence stakeholders at all levels.
* Competence in using data to establish baselines, monitor performance, and guide decision-making.
* Hands-on experience with visual management systems (SQDCP) and driving engagement on the shop floor.
* Skilled in value stream mapping and optimising end-to-end processes.
* Proven ability to deliver cost-saving initiatives through Lean approaches.
* Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills with a track record of improving quality, cost, delivery, and safety.