Head of Process Engineering

Confidential; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing firm in the United Kingdom is seeking a Head of Process Engineering to oversee the development and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. This role demands a seasoned professional with at least 5 years of leadership experience in process engineering, focusing on operational excellence through methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma. Responsibilities include driving innovation and standardization across production sites while engaging with customers and suppliers to resolve technical challenges.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a leadership role within manufacturing or process engineering.
• Track record of delivering process improvement projects with measurable outcomes.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred).

Responsibilities

• Lead the process engineering strategy aligning with business objectives.
• Define and deliver a process improvement roadmap.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Continuous Improvement

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering

Tools

APQP methodologies

Job description

Our Head of Process Engineering will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes, ensuring best-in-class quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This role is central to driving operational excellence through Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), lean manufacturing principles, and robust engineering leadership.

The successful candidate will bring proven experience in operations and process optimisation, providing strategic direction while actively engaging in hands-on problem-solving to enhance productivity, safety, and product quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the process engineering strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives
• Define and deliver a process improvement roadmap that supports operational targets and strategic growth plans
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement and innovation across the organisation
• Oversee the design optimisation, and validation of lab processes to achieve world-class performance
• Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to reduce waste, improve cycle times, and increase value-add activities
• Drive standardisation and best practices across all production sites
• Lead the development and deployment of APQP activities, ensuring compliance with customer and industry requirements
• Engage with customers, suppliers, and internal teams to resolve technical challenges and ensure project delivery
• Act as a technical authority for process-related decisions

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related discipline
• Significant experience in manufacturing or process engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Demonstrable experience in operations management or operational support roles
• Track record of successfully delivering process improvement projects with measurable outcomes
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)
• Experience in automotive, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing sectors is highly desirable

Required Skills

• Expert knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement tools
• Strong understanding of APQP methodologies, control plans, and risk management tools
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels

Preferred Skills

• Experience in automotive, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing sectors is highly desirable