Head of Manufacturing

This is a significant opportunity for a driven and ambitious Manufacturing professional to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of ZEISS Vision Care UK's manufacturing operations. As a brand deeply rooted in innovation and scientific discovery, ZEISS offers a unique platform for individuals looking to make a tangible impact within a globally recognized leader in optics.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Influence and Impact: This role offers the chance to directly contribute to and drive the UK Manufacturing strategy, aligning it with ambitious growth objectives. You will have significant involvement with Group Manufacturing functions, allowing for both local and global strategic influence.
• Career Growth and Development: ZEISS is experiencing substantial growth, creating a dynamic environment for professional development. The emphasis on mentorship, coaching, and team development suggests a strong commitment to employee growth, enabling individuals to reach their full potential.
• Innovation and Technology: As a pioneer in optics, ZEISS prioritizes innovation. Candidates will have the opportunity to work with and implement the latest technology and equipment, contributing to a market-leading production facility.
• Transformational Leadership: The role demands the transformation of an established manufacturing operation, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for those who thrive on driving efficiency, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Global Reach and Heritage: Being part of the ZEISS group provides exposure to a vast international network and a rich heritage dating back to 1846. The foundation structure, reinvesting revenue into research and education, highlights a long-term commitment to progress and societal benefit.
• Showcase Environment: The objective is to create a "showcase lab environment," meaning the facility will be a benchmark of excellence for both staff and customers, providing a source of pride and a tangible representation of success.
• Purpose-Driven Organization: ZEISS's mission to enhance the lives and vision of millions, coupled with their commitment to research and education, offers a sense of purpose beyond commercial success.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Transformational Experience is Key: The description explicitly seeks candidates with a "proven experience of transforming a Manufacturing operation." If your career has involved significant change management and operational overhauls, this role will be a strong fit.
• Strategic Thinking Required: Beyond day-to-day management, success in this role necessitates the ability to think strategically, understand broader business drivers, and translate complex problems into actionable plans for senior leadership.
• Leadership and People Development Focus: While technical expertise in manufacturing is crucial, the emphasis on strong leadership, team engagement, coaching, and development suggests that interpersonal skills and the ability to foster a positive and high-performing team culture are equally important.
• Commitment to Excellence: The role demands adherence to best-in-industry standards for quality, safety, compliance (ISO, UK legislation), and operational efficiency. A meticulous and quality-first mindset will be essential.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Candidates should be comfortable with and have experience in leading Lean production systems and continuously improving end-to-end manufacturing processes to drive efficiency and enhance customer experience.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The fast-paced, growth-oriented environment requires individuals who are resilient, self-aware, and open to change.
• Desirable Skills: While not strictly mandatory, experience with SAP in a manufacturing setting, Lean Six Sigma qualifications, project management accreditation, and knowledge of automation or the optical market would be advantageous.

In summary, this role presents an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned manufacturing leader looking to leave a lasting mark within a globally respected, innovation-driven organization. If you possess a passion for driving operational excellence, leading high-performing teams, and contributing to significant business growth in a company with a strong social purpose, ZEISS Vision Care UK could be the ideal next step in your career journey.