Operational Excellence Manager

Ferrero is a family-owned company with a truly progressive and global outlook and iconic brands such as Nutella®, Tic Tac®, Ferrero Rocher®, Raffaello®, Kinder Bueno® and Kinder Surprise®. As the love for our brands continues to grow, so too does our global reach. Represented in more than 50 countries, with products sold in more than 170, the Ferrero Group is loved by generations around the world. The secret to our global success? 38,767  dedicated employees who celebrate care and quality to craft a business, careers and brands we are proud of. Join us, and you could be one of them.

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all of our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative and highly rewarding.

ABOUT THE ROLE:  

At our Arlon plant, we're looking for an Operational Excellence Manager to spearhead our strategic initiatives and drive the Ferrero Operational eXcellence (FOX) Program, the Ferrero program connected to Lean Manufacturing.

The successful candidate will serve as the principal liaison between the Plant and the FOX Central Team, shaping the plant's strategic plan and executing the FOX Programme. This role will focus on implementing Lean methodologies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, promote continous improvement initiatives, optimize production processes and enhance product quality within our manufacturing operations. 

Reporting directly to the Plant Director and as a pivotal member of the Plant Leadership Team, this position offers the opportunity to get valuable insights into our overall Operations organization and it is a solid springboard for further development within the Group. 

Join us in Arlon and be part of our dynamic team shaping the future of Ferrero. Apply now and contribute to the success of our internationally recognized brands!

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Lean Implementation: lead the deployment of the Lean manufacturing tools such as standard work, 5S, SMED, Autonomous Maintenance, visual factory, and error-proofing (poka yoke)
• Continuous Improvement: Develop and execute continuous improvement strategies to optimize production processes, increase efficiency, and reduce operational costs. Conduct regular reviews and audits to ensure sustainability of Lean initiatives
• Change Management: Drive cultural change within the organization by promoting Lean thinking and practices. Engage and inspire employees to embrace Lean principles and contribute to the continuous improvement journey
• Performance Metrics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress of Lean initiatives. Use data-driven insights to drive decision-making and improvements. Identify progress indicators and define follow-up actions and communication plans
• Project Management: Lead and manage Lean projects from conception to completion. Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget
• Process Optimization: Analyze current production processes and workflows to identify inefficiencies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to redesign and optimize processes for better performance
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure all Lean initiatives comply with industry regulations and Health & Safety and Food Safety Standards. Promote a safe and healthy work environment
• Waste Reduction: Identify and eliminate waste in all forms (e.g., overproduction, waiting times, transportation, excess inventory, motion, defects, and over-processing) to enhance overall operational efficiency

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR: 

 
Profile 

• University degree in Engineering or related scientific fields
• Strong credibility in shopfloor operations with 5-7 years of experience in various manufacturing roles
• Mastery of project management and continuous improvement tools (e.g., 5S, Problem Solving - Kaizen, SMED, Autonomous Maintenance)
• A Lean Six Sigma certification is highly desirable
• Exceptional interpersonal skills for professional and effective interactions with local teams and senior management
• High accountability and proactivity
• Adept at managing complexities with multiple variables
• Aspiration for an international career in Operations

IT Skills 

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office 
• Experience with Data Visualization Tools
• Understanding of Statistical Analysis Software 
• Competence in Project Management Software 

Languages 

• Fluency in English is mandatory;
• Fluency in French is a significant asset.

How to be successful in the role and at Ferrero: 

Consumers, quality and care are at the heart of everything we do. So, to be successful at Ferrero, you’ll need to be just as consumer and product centric as we are - dedicated to crafting brilliant results for consumers around the world.