Operational Excellence Leader - Western Approach

Date: May 1, 2026

Location: Bristol, GB

Company: GKN Aerospace Careers

Job Summary

It’s great to know you’re making a difference to the future of aviation! Whatever part you play you’ll be helping us deliver operational excellence to our customers.

 

An exciting and career defining opportunity has arisen for an Operational Excellence Leader to join the team based at our Western Approach site (BS35 4GG), The modern manufacturing facility is an International Centre of Excellence in composite wing structure design and production, manufacturing composite wing spars and Fixed Trailing Edge assemblies for some of the world's most popular aircrafts.

 

As part of our Operational Excellence team, you will step into the vital role of Operational Excellence Leader. In this position, you’ll take the lead on driving efficiency and operational excellence across our business, spearheading initiatives that refine processes, foster collaboration, and build a lasting culture of continuous improvement. Your work will directly influence our competitive edge and overall operational effectiveness, therefore a strong background utilising Lean methodologies and world-class manufacturing systems is vital.

How You'll Contribute

 

The Operational Excellence Leader will be responsible for the following:

 

  • Set, monitor, and analyse Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive targeted improvements.
  • Lead and implement technical process enhancement initiatives to streamline operations.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with various teams to ensure aligned objectives and cohesive execution.
  • Sustain improvement efforts by embedding them into the company’s day-to-day operations.
  • Identify and remove barriers to productivity, and operational flow ensuring optimal resource utilization.
     
     

What You'll Bring

 

To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:
 
Essential:

 

  • Demonstrated experience in driving improvements and efficiency within a business environment
  • Strong background in process refinement and change management
  • Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and present actionable insights
  • Proven leadership capabilities, including the ability to inspire and influence cross-functional teams
  • Solid understanding of continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills, both written and verbal

 

Desirable:

 

  • Aerospace or Automotive engineering background
  • Engineering degree or strong technical foundation within manufacturing or production environments
  • Experience working within complex assembly, machining or composite structures
  • Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent continuous improvement qualification
  • Experience working in a regulated or safety critical industry
  • Strong problem solving mindset with the ability to translate engineering insight into operational improvements
  • Ability to build credibility with engineers, manufacturing teams and technical specialists
     

What We'll Offer

 

Once you’re on board you’ll get the following perks and benefits:

 

  • Competitive salary dependent on experience
  • Up to 15% Bonus
  • Access to a salary sacrifice EV scheme giving tax and national insurance savings
  • Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis (Employer max contribution 12%)
  • Life Assurance 8 x salary
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Flexible working hours including the ability to finish at 12noon on a Friday
  • Income protection
  • Shopping discounts
  • Cycle To Work SchemeEmployee Assistance Programme
  • Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family
  • A collaborative, dynamic working environment
     

As well as a competitive package we’ll offer you a world of opportunity. We want to see your career fly! We’ll support your career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities. That’s the beauty of being part of a global business, once you’re on board you never know where you career journey may take you!