Operations Support Manager (Submarines)

This review provides an insightful look into the Operations Support Manager (Submarines) role at Rolls-Royce, designed to help potential candidates understand the unique opportunity and how it aligns with their career aspirations.

About the Opportunity:

Rolls-Royce, a name synonymous with innovation and reliability for over a century, presents a compelling opportunity for an Operations Support Manager within its Submarines division. This full-time, day-shift role, based in Derby, is pivotal in ensuring the seamless operation of their critical supply chain. The core mission of this position is to act as a catalyst for resolving major delivery issues, focusing on "turbo-charging solutions" for significant challenges within the supply chain.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Role: You will be at the forefront of tackling critical supply chain issues, directly contributing to the company's ability to deliver vital power systems where safety and reliability are paramount. This offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible difference.
• Strategic Engagement: The role demands direct engagement with specific suppliers, allowing you to define and lead support programmes. This hands-on approach to problem-solving fosters a deep understanding of supplier dynamics and performance improvement.
• Process Improvement & Innovation: A significant aspect of this role involves translating learnings into sustainable changes. You'll be instrumental in developing and implementing robust supplier management processes, tools, and systems to prevent future risks and drive operational excellence. This is an excellent chance to leave a lasting legacy on how Rolls-Royce manages its supply chain.
• Career Development: Rolls-Royce is committed to employee growth, offering "excellent development opportunities." This role provides exposure to complex challenges and cross-functional collaboration, which are invaluable for advancing your career in operations and supply chain management.
• Global Exposure: The role requires up to 75% domestic and international travel, offering diverse experiences and the chance to work with a global network of partners and colleagues.
• Inclusive Culture: Rolls-Royce champions an environment of "caring and belonging," fostering an inclusive and innovative culture that invests in its people and provides a "breadth and depth of opportunities."

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Problem-Solving Prowess: The role is specifically designed for individuals who excel at identifying, analyzing, and resolving complex operational issues within a manufacturing and supply chain context. A proven track record in operational excellence is essential.
• Agility and Adaptability: The need for both pre-planned and reactive travel to address major incidents highlights the dynamic nature of this position. Candidates should be comfortable with a degree of unpredictability and the ability to adapt quickly.
• Influencing and Relationship Building: Success in this role hinges on exceptional communication and influencing skills. You will need to build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers at all levels to drive desired outcomes.
• Technical Proficiency: While not explicitly stated as a requirement for deep technical engineering knowledge, familiarity with manufacturing operations, Lean principles, planning & control, program management, and SAP will be highly beneficial.
• Security Clearance & Nationality: Please note that to work for Rolls-Royce Submarines, you will require Security Check (SC) clearance without any caveats. Rolls-Royce will support the application process. Additionally, due to the sensitive nature of the work, UK nationality is a requirement, with additional scrutiny for dual nationals.
• Values Alignment: Rolls-Royce actively seeks individuals who embody their core values of agility, boldness, collaboration, and simplicity. These principles are integral to their assessment process.

Career Path Guidance:

For professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in supply chain operations, particularly within a high-stakes environment, this role is a significant stepping stone. It offers the chance to develop advanced problem-solving, supplier management, and stakeholder engagement skills. The experience gained in driving sustainable change and implementing robust processes can position you for leadership roles in operational improvement, strategic sourcing, or supply chain management within large, complex organizations. The exposure to the defence sector and its unique requirements also provides specialized career development opportunities.