Operations Improvement Manager

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Job Description:
Operations Improvement Manager
Location: Birstall, West Yorkshire (on-site)

We are looking for an experienced Operations Improvement Manager to join our Operations team at Mars Birstall Care & Treats, reporting directly to the site Operations Manager. This is a leadership role responsible for delivering daily operational performance while driving a strong Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Continuous Improvement culture across the production teams.
The role combines hands-on operational leadership with strategic improvement, ensuring production runs safely, efficiently, and reliably while continuously raising standards across people, processes, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership:
* Lead day-to-day production operations to deliver against safety, quality, service, and cost targets.

* Ensure production plans are executed efficiently to meet customer demand and service levels.

* Work closely with planning, engineering, and supply chain teams to optimise production flow.

Continuous Improvement & TPM:
* Drive the deployment and maturity of TPM pillars, particularly Autonomous Maintenance and Focused Improvement.
* Lead structured problem-solving and root cause analysis to eliminate recurring losses.
* Identify and deliver productivity, waste reduction, and efficiency improvements across the production area.
* Champion Lean manufacturing principles including visual management, standard work, and performance routines.
* Build CI capability within frontline teams and develop a culture of ownership and accountability.

People & Culture:
* Coach and develop production leaders to build a high-performance culture.
* Foster strong engagement and accountability across teams.
* Support succession planning and capability development within the production function.
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Performance & Delivery:
* Own key manufacturing KPIs including Safety, Quality, TRS and waste performance.
* Deliver measurable improvements in operational efficiency and reliability.
* Support site strategic initiatives and longer-term operational capability development.

About You:
* Proven experience in a Production Manager / Manufacturing Manager role within FMCG or high-volume manufacturing.
* Strong background in TPM, Lean Manufacturing, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
* Track record of delivering operational performance and CI improvements simultaneously.
* Experienced in leading and developing front line leaders.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving capability with a data-driven approach.
* Comfortable balancing strategic improvement initiatives with the realities of day-to-day factory operations.

What can you expect from Mars?
* Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by The Five Principles.
* Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
* A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
* A leadership role with real influence over operational performance.
* Opportunity to shape and embed a strong TPM and Continuous Improvement culture.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.

Mars is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or who are neurodiverse during the application and recruitment process. To request reasonable adjustments, complete our Reasonable Adjustment Request Form here.

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