Value Stream Manager - Manufacturing

Mars; Veghel; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Company bonus

Access to Mars University for learning and development

Job summary

Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates in Veghel, Netherlands is seeking a Value Stream Manager to lead a large manufacturing value stream. This role involves ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective production while partnering with various teams to meet business objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Engineering or related fields, at least 10 years of manufacturing experience, and strong people leadership skills. Joining Mars means engaging with talented colleagues and benefiting from a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of manufacturing or operations experience.
• At least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Knowledge of food safety, quality systems, HACCP, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing operations to ensure safe and efficient production.
• Drive operational excellence through Lean Manufacturing and other initiatives.
• Coach and develop high-performing teams.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health standards.

Skills

Manufacturing process knowledge

People leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Food Science or Business-related studies

Job description

Job Description

Job title: Value Stream Manager.

Location: Veghel, Netherlands.

Segment: Snacking.

Contract type: Full Time. Onsite. Permanent.

Start date: Ideally in September 2026.

The Value Stream Manager is responsible for leading a large manufacturing value stream, ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective production of high-quality products. The role provides leadership across operations, people development, continuous improvement, quality, and performance management while driving operational excellence and associate engagement.

As a member of the site leadership team, the Value Stream Manager partners closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, R&D and Commercial teams to deliver business objectives and support the site's long-term growth strategy.

What are we looking for?

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Engineering, Food Science or Business-related studies.
• Minimum 10 years of manufacturing or operations experience, including at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment, controls and products.
• Experience driving Lean Manufacturing, TPM, Operational Excellence, or equivalent methodologies.
• Knowledge of food safety, quality systems, HACCP, and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated people leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of HSE requirements and employment legislation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels and across functions.
• Fluency in English is required.

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Lead manufacturing operations across the value stream, ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective production while meeting quality, service, and performance targets.
• Drive operational excellence by championing the site's operational framework, continuous improvement initiatives, Lean Manufacturing, TPM, and other performance enhancement programs.
• Lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams by fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Ensure the highest standards of food safety, product quality, HACCP compliance, health and safety, and regulatory adherence across all operations.
• Establish and monitor operational goals, budgets, KPIs, and performance standards, taking corrective actions as needed to achieve business objectives.
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, R&D, and Commercial teams to implement process improvements, drive innovation, and deliver strategic business priorities.
• Oversee technical troubleshooting, maintenance activities, and technology advancement initiatives to improve operational reliability, efficiency, and product quality.
• Contribute to site and value stream strategy as a member of the leadership team and act on behalf of the Plant Director when required.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.