Operations Manager

Function: Supply Chain
Scope: Local
Location: Casalpusterlengo 

Terms & Conditions: Full-time – Permanent
Collective Labour Agreement: Chemical Industry (CNEL Code B011)

Salary Range: €56800 – €78100 gross per year 
 

As part of a truly global organisation, you’ll gain more than a career. You’ll tap into a vibrant, diverse network in a culture that cares deeply where everyone can succeed and grow. You will have the opportunity to make an impact and be eligible for the bonus plan, based both on business results and individual measurable contribution and performance, as well as for the long-term incentives, in line with the current company policy.

• Lead and develop manufacturing operations across the sulphonation plant, making, packing lines, and palletization area, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable production performance.
• Manage and coach a multidisciplinary team, including First Line Managers, Process Engineers, and Maintenance Coordinators, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Drive the implementation, optimization, and sustainability of the Run to Standard methodology and the Unilever Manufacturing System.
• Identify operational losses and lead structured improvement initiatives to eliminate waste, reduce defects, and improve productivity and efficiency.
• Partner closely with Planning, Engineering, Safety, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to deliver business objectives and continuous improvement projects.
• Facilitate daily operational reviews and performance meetings, ensuring timely decision-making and effective problem resolution.
• Analyze production and performance data to identify opportunities, monitor progress against KPIs, and implement corrective actions where required.
• Lead root cause analysis activities and support frontline teams in defining and implementing sustainable countermeasures.
• Validate process improvements and establish revised operating standards to ensure long-term operational stability and performance.
• Champion digital transformation initiatives and support the implementation of innovative technologies that enhance manufacturing effectiveness and supply chain performance.

• Master’s degree in Engineering, preferably Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Management Engineering.
• Proven experience leading manufacturing or operations teams within a complex industrial or production environment.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to engage and develop large teams.
• Demonstrated experience in continuous improvement methodologies, operational excellence, and performance management using data-driven decision making.
• Professional proficiency in English and Italian.

• Experience working with World Class Manufacturing (WCM), TPM, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or equivalent operational excellence frameworks.
• Knowledge of digital manufacturing solutions, process automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Strong project management experience with a track record of delivering operational transformation and performance improvement initiatives.
• Previous experience as Process Engineer, Production Manager, Manufacturing Excellence Manager, or similar operational leadership roles.