CHEP helps move more goods to more people, in more places than any other organization on earth via our 347 million pallets, crates, and containers. We employ approximately 13,000 people and operate in 60 countries. Through our pioneering and sustainable share-and-reuse business model, the world’s biggest brands trust us to help them transport their goods more efficiently, safely, and with less environmental impact.

The Role

Ready to take the lead in a high-impact manufacturing environment? As Operations Lead in our Tiel plant, you'll manage a team of up to 85 colleagues, drive safety, performance, and continuous improvement, and act as the right hand of the Plant Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity to combine people leadership with operational excellence and make a visible impact on plant success.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on leadership by mentoring, coaching, and guiding employees, addressing employee relations issues, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Lead and enhance safety performance on shift, promoting a proactive safety culture through training, accident prevention, and rehabilitation programs, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Manage shift maintenance activities, resolving equipment breakdowns in coordination with the maintenance team to maintain uninterrupted plant operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives on shift, implementing best practices to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness across end-to-end operations.
• Monitor and manage the plant's operational costs and yield, working closely with the Plant Manager to optimize performance and contribute to overall plant objectives.
• Address performance and attendance matters in collaboration with HR, ensuring that all plant staff meet operational expectations.
• Ensure full compliance with CHEP procedures and work instructions, ensuring tasks are completed accurately and in line with company standards and operational goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• NEBOSH Qualification or equivalent certifications in production management, safety, quality control, and lean manufacturing are desirable.
• 3+ years of experience in a fast-paced production & distribution operation or related industry, including supervisory or management experience.
• Experience leading Zero Harm initiatives, risk assessments, and developing high-performance teams in a blue-collar environment.
• Strong understanding of production processes, quality control, safety regulations, and industry standards.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage with team members and stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and implement solutions quickly and effectively.
• Proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of Dutch, German, or any Eastern European language is a plus.

Skills to Succeed

Adaptability, Change Management, Coaching, Computer Literacy, Cross-Functional Work, Data Analysis, Data-Driven Decision Making, Digital Literacy, Emotional Intelligence, Feedback, Inclusive Leadership, Innovation, Mentoring, Motivating Teams, Prioritization, Scheduling, Stakeholder Engagement, Strategic Thinking.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to developing a diverse workforce where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. Join us in making a significant impact on global sustainability and operational excellence.