Operations Manager at interim

Initial duration: 6 months guaranteed. Potential extension: up to an additional 3 months.

Short description

As Operations Manager you are responsible for the entire production organization within your scope. You are the end-responsible for the daily output and delivery of products according our high quality and safety standards. As part of the multi-site leadership team you ensure the flawless execution of the operational plan and improvement plans to achieve the factory's strategy and contribute to the objectives of the plant. You oversee and optimize the day-to-day activities of the organization and ensure efficient and effective business operations combining with a long term horizon on improvement and efficiency. This role is key to maintaining smooth processes, improving productivity, reducing costs, and ensuring that the organization meets its strategic goals.

Vacancy description

The operations Manager reports to the multi-site Director and is responsible for the entire daily 'Run' organization and execution of the Improve plans set by the MSLT.

Process Optimization:

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Streamlining and improving workflows to enhance efficiency and productivity.

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Identifying and addressing bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

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Lead Improvement task forces and sponsor of over departmental improvement PDCA’s

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Able to translate shop floor improvements into clear improvement projects or capex requests

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Priority setting among the various initiatives and daily necessities

Team Leadership:

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Managing and motivating teams to ensure high performance. In this role you manage (directly and indirectly) a team with aprox. 100 -150 FTEs). You are directly responsible of the shift teamleaders, weekend teamleaders, an opex team and the cups coordinators.

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Ensuring adequate training and resources for staff to perform their roles effectively.

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Connects well with shop floor, pears as higher management.

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Team player who’s able to oversee and act according overall site expectations

Resource Management:

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Overseeing the allocation and utilization of resources (personnel, equipment, materials).

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Ensuring smooth operations through proper staffing and resource planning.

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Able to service other departments as to share resources

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Develop and train full team on knowledge and capabilities

Quality Control:

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Monitoring and maintaining product or service quality standards.

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Implementing measures to ensure consistent quality.

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Budget and Cost Management:

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Developing and managing operational budgets.

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Controlling costs while maintaining operational efficiency and quality.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

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Collaborating with senior management to develop and execute operational strategies.

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Aligning day-to-day operations with the company's overall goals.

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Execute the yearly improvement and cost saving objectives

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Support strategic investment projects and lead some of them

Performance Monitoring:

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Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess operations.

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Analyzing data to identify areas for improvement and making adjustments as needed.

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Operational excellence mindset, eye fit for purpose solutions

What we ask

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Bachelor with experience >10 years or Academic / Master with experience >5 years - preferably in a scientific or technical field.

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Additional training in continuous improvement: e.g. SPC, 6 Sigma, Yellow/black belt,…

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Proven experience in managing and motivating large teams, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.

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Demonstrated ability to streamline workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement efficiency improvements.

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Proficiency in developing and managing operational budgets, and controlling costs while maintaining efficiency and quality.

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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address operational challenges effectively.

Language Requirements

Dutch is mandatory.

Work Arrangement

Fully onsite.

Candidate Profile

Summary:

Senior-level candidate required.

Ideally someone willing to take a step down in hierarchy for a consultancy/interim assignment.

Looking for a mature professional with strong leadership experience.

Open to candidates who may appear overqualified for the role.

Not interested in candidates with a history of changing jobs too frequently.

Must be an expert-level professional who can:

Lead people effectively.

Influence stakeholders without relying solely on authority.

Drive operational improvements.

Guide teams and bring departments to a higher level of performance.

Key Experience Required

Strong people management background.

Significant experience in Operations Management.

Proven ability to lead large production teams in a manufacturing environment.

Excellent collaboration and influencing skills.

Rate Details

• Enjoy a competitive salary package with extra perks that recognize your talent.
• Advance your career with a clear growth path, coaching, and mentoring to support you.
• Thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment where you can truly make an impact.
• Work when and where you perform best, ensuring an optimal work-life balance.
• Choose a flexible transport solution, from a company car to a public transport subscription.
• Expand your network and enjoy unforgettable moments at exclusive events and afterworks.
• Grow your skills with external courses and our in-house Pauwels Academy.
• Work on exciting projects with industry leaders in Life Sciences, Engineering & Digital.
• Seize opportunities at every level, from a strong start to career acceleration and expert collaboration.