Operational Excellence Leader

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. At our GKN Filton site, we specialise in the design and manufacture of large complex structural wing assemblies, detailed metallic components and wing systems for a combination of both civil and military aircraft.
 
As part of our Operational Excellence team, The successful applicant will step into the vital role of Operational Breakthrough 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.

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 engineering background or experience working within the aerospace sector
• Engineering degree or strong technical foundation within manufacturing or production environments
• Experience working within complex assembly, machining or metallic structures environments
• 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
• 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 Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment