Manufacturing Excellence Lead at Unilever

JOB PURPOSE

• The Manex Lead champions UMS deployment and digital transformation at site level, building capability and eliminating losses to boost manufacturing performance. They turn strategy into action through a focused Masterplan that empowers operators, engineers, and leaders to deliver world‑class results.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead UMS Implementation
• Drive the deployment and management of the Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS) across the site, ensuring alignment with the category manufacturing strategy.
• Develop and Execute UMS Masterplan
• Translate the site manufacturing strategy into a comprehensive UMS Masterplan, including preparation phase planning, progress tracking, and issue resolution.
• Coach and Build Capability
• Provide UMS education and coaching to all site personnel (operators, engineers, supervisors, managers), including leadership development and pillar capability building.
• Facilitate Pillar Development
• Support and guide pillar leaders in setting benchmarks, tracking progress, and achieving pillar goals through regular reviews and active participation.
• Promote UMS Culture and Engagement
• Champion UMS across the site, fostering cultural change through recognition programs, success sharing, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Drive Operational Performance
• Ensure UMS activities contribute to measurable improvements in manufacturing KPIs such as OEE, OR, Zero-Based Waste and ManEx Savings.
• Lead Digital Transformation
• Drive the adoption and integration of digital tools and systems to enhance operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
• Governance and Review Leadership
• Lead quarterly factory performance reviews and ensure adherence to FOS governance across all pillars and departments.
• Support Masterplan Updates
• Collaborate with site leadership to create and update factory master plans, ensuring alignment with zero-loss journey and strategic goals.
• Coordinate External Support and Learning
• Plan and manage consultant visits, document learnings, and ensure effective follow-up actions to accelerate UMS progress.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BSc/BEng Degree in Mechanical / Chemical Engineering

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Key Requirements

• 5 years working in manufacturing environment directly with production teams.
• At least 2-3 years leadership of first line production teams
• Microsoft Office proficiency (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Hands on experience with implementation of world class manufacturing system (WCM, TPM, Six Sigma etc.).
• In depth knowledge of pillar methodologies and capability building

Preferred Requirements

• Lean Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt or higher)
• Project Management Certification (e.g., PMP or PRINCE2)

SKILLS

• Operational Excellence & Lean Manufacturing
• Strategic Planning & Execution
• Coaching & Capability Building
• Change Management & Culture Building
• Performance Management & KPI Tracking
• Digital Fluency & Tech Adoption
• Stakeholder Influence & Communication
• Governance & Compliance
• Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking
• Project & Time Management