Team Leader (Bristol, GB)

Career Opportunity: Team Leader - Aerospace Manufacturing

GKN Aerospace, a global leader in the aerospace industry, is seeking motivated and skilled individuals to join their innovative team as Team Leaders. This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals looking to make a tangible impact on the future of air travel, contributing to a company that is at the forefront of technological advancement and sustainability initiatives.

The Opportunity: A Catalyst for Growth

This role presents a fantastic chance to lead and develop a team of 10-12 operators within GKN Aerospace's Western Approach site. As an International Centre of Excellence in composite wing structure design and production, this facility is responsible for manufacturing critical components for some of the world's most popular aircraft. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, ensuring the successful delivery of key performance targets across People, Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cash, and Cost (PSQDCC).

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Industry Leadership and Innovation: GKN Aerospace is redefining air travel, pushing boundaries in speed, efficiency, and sustainability. Joining this team means being part of a forward-thinking organization shaping the future of aviation.
• Significant Impact: As a Team Leader, you will have direct accountability for operational performance, directly contributing to the company's mission of delivering excellence to customers and playing a part in protecting global security.
• Career Development and Progression: GKN Aerospace is deeply committed to fostering employee growth. With extensive learning and development opportunities and a global footprint, the potential for career advancement is substantial. The company emphasizes that "there are no limits to where you can take your career."
• Collaborative and Inclusive Culture: GKN Aerospace prides itself on creating a "Great Place To Work," evidenced by their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. They actively encourage a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute and are the recipients of the 'Best Workplace Culture Award.'
• Attractive Compensation and Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary, the role offers a compelling benefits package including the opportunity for a significant bonus, an industry-leading pension scheme, life assurance, generous holiday allowance, and various employee support programs.
• Work-Life Balance Considerations: The initial working pattern is a 4-day, 37.5-hour week. Notably, there's a planned transition to a 7-day fortnight pattern starting in February 2026, which includes a 28% shift allowance, offering a structured approach to work-life integration.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Leadership Aptitude: The role requires the ability to motivate, encourage, and develop a team. Candidates should possess a strong potential for leadership and a passion for fostering individual and team growth.
• Operational Excellence Focus: A deep understanding and commitment to operational excellence, particularly in delivering PSQDCC targets, is crucial. Experience with Lean Operating Models and a proactive problem-solving approach (e.g., "Go to Gemba") will be highly beneficial.
• Adaptability to Shift Patterns: Be aware of the shift pattern transition in February 2026. While it includes a significant shift allowance, it requires adaptability to a fortnight-based schedule.
• Commitment to Safety and Quality: A "safety-first" mindset is paramount. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to upholding rigorous Health, Safety, and Environmental policies and standards.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: The role involves active participation in problem-solving and contributing to the evolution of value streams. A proactive and continuous improvement approach will be key to success.
• Essential Skills: While experience is valued, GKN Aerospace also looks for potential. Demonstrable excellent performance as a team member, the ability to work with various stakeholders, strong communication skills, and a good command of English are essential.
• Desirable Aerospace Background: While not strictly required, previous experience in a managerial/team leader role and specific knowledge of the aerospace industry will be advantageous, allowing for quicker integration and contribution.

This Team Leader position at GKN Aerospace offers a dynamic environment where your expertise and dedication can truly shape the future of aviation. If you are a driven individual seeking a challenging and rewarding career in a globally recognized organization committed to innovation and sustainability, this opportunity is well worth exploring.