Smiths Detection - Director of Operational Excellence

JR United Kingdom; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global company in threat detection is seeking a Director of Operational Excellence in Hemel Hempstead. This pivotal role focuses on enhancing productivity and implementing innovative strategies across operations. With a proven background in driving transformation and a commitment to continuous improvement, you will lead initiatives aimed at making significant impacts to operational efficiencies and team performance.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in operational excellence or process improvement roles.
• Proven leadership in large-scale transformation initiatives.
• Fluent in English; additional languages are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead enterprise-wide operational excellence strategies.
• Manage cross-functional teams to deliver process improvement initiatives.
• Champion automation and digital transformation.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Project Management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Lean

Six Sigma

Digital tools

Job description

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Smiths Detection - Director of Operational Excellence, hemel hempstead

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Client:

Location:

hemel hempstead, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

5

Posted:

26.06.2025

Expiry Date:

10.08.2025

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Job Description:

Smiths Detection | Division of Smiths Group plc

Reports to: VP Operations

Location: Hemel Hempstead (UK) or Wiesbaden (Germany)

About Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. Part of Smiths Group, a FTSE 100 company, we are driven by the mission to make the world a safer place. Our solutions help detect and identify explosives, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and narcotics — protecting people and critical infrastructure every day. With a global presence and a strong culture of innovation, we empower our teams to solve complex problems with cutting-edge technology.

We are currently seeking a dynamic Director of Operational Excellence to lead transformative change and drive strategic improvement across our global operations.

About the Role

This is a high-impact leadership position, responsible for shaping and implementing our global Operational Excellence strategy. You will collaborate closely with senior leadership to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and embed a culture of continuous improvement across our manufacturing and service functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead enterprise-wide operational excellence strategies aligned to business objectives
• Integrate Lean, Six Sigma, and digital tools to streamline processes and drive efficiency
• Build and manage cross-functional teams to deliver complex process improvement initiatives
• Influence strategic decisions with data-led insights and robust KPI frameworks
• Coach and mentor teams at all levels to embed a culture of continuous improvement
• Champion automation and digital transformation to future-proof our operations

What You Bring

• 7+ years of experience in operational excellence or process improvement roles
• Proven leadership of large-scale transformation initiatives
• Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Fluent in English; additional languages a plus
• Willingness to travel internationally as needed

Why Smiths Detection?

At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of global safety and security. We invest in innovation and in our people - giving you the opportunity to lead, shape strategy, and drive impactful change.