Director of Manufacturing Operations & Excellence

Elanco; England; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Elanco is seeking an experienced Operations Director to provide strategic and operational leadership across our manufacturing site. You will drive safety, quality, delivery and cost performance while building a culture of continuous improvement.

You will lead cross‑functional teams, shape operational strategy, and ensure execution of production plans in a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment. This role demands strong leadership and stakeholder management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific or engineering discipline.
• Significant leadership experience within a manufacturing or process industry.
• Proven experience managing large operational teams in a 24/7 manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence (Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred).
• Experience with project management and ERP systems such as SAP.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working in highly regulated industries.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, compliant manufacturing operations, championing a strong safety culture and ensuring robust systems of work.
• Drive operational excellence across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and People performance.
• Develop and execute production plans while ensuring on-time delivery and operational efficiency.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Technical Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Planning and Finance.
• Own operational performance, including manufacturing execution, equipment readiness, maintenance, quality performance and recovery planning.
• Manage departmental budgets, headcount and operational resources to meet business objectives.
• Build, coach and develop high-performing teams through performance management, succession planning and talent development.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies to improve productivity, reduce variability and enhance manufacturing performance.
• Represent Operations within site leadership forums and drive strategic operational initiatives across the business.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, EHS and Feed Safety requirements while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Continuous Improvement

Lean Manufacturing

Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt

Project Management

Communication

Stakeholder management

Regulated industries experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in science or engineering

Tools

SAP

Job description

Elanco is seeking an experienced Operations Director to provide strategic and operational leadership across our manufacturing site. You will drive safety, quality, delivery and cost performance while building a culture of continuous improvement.

You will lead cross‑functional teams, shape operational strategy, and ensure execution of production plans in a fast‑paced, highly regulated environment. This role demands strong leadership and stakeholder management.