Conversion Operations Leader — Lean & Safety

Smurfit Westrock; Banwell; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave

Pension

Cycle to Work

Training and development

Flexible working options

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Conversion Manager to lead the Conversion Department, directing Shift Managers and teams to achieve safety, quality, production and cost objectives. You will foster a positive, inclusive culture while driving continuous improvement across operations.

Key responsibilities include safety leadership, performance optimization, and Lean initiatives. The role requires strong people leadership and the ability to influence across the organisation.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in manufacturing or corrugated packaging
• Proven leadership of operational teams
• Knowledge of manufacturing efficiency, quality, cost control
• Experience driving continuous improvement
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Able to lead change and deliver results

Responsibilities

• Champion safety culture and ensure safe systems of work
• Lead conversion operation to meet productivity and cost targets
• Improve machine performance and uptime
• Lead Lean manufacturing initiatives (5S, SMED, Kanban)
• Coach Shift Managers and plan workforce
• Collaborate with HR and other departments
• Stakeholder management with internal/external customers and suppliers

Skills

Leadership experience

Operations management

Lean manufacturing

5S/SMED

Communication

Stakeholder management

Problem solving

Decision making

Cost control

People leadership

Job description

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Conversion Manager to lead the Conversion Department, directing Shift Managers and teams to achieve safety, quality, production and cost objectives. You will foster a positive, inclusive culture while driving continuous improvement across operations.

Key responsibilities include safety leadership, performance optimization, and Lean initiatives. The role requires strong people leadership and the ability to influence across the organisation.