Operations Manager

Function: Supply Chain

Scope: Local

Location: Casalpusterlengo

Terms & Conditions: Full-time - Permanent

CollectiveLabourAgreement: Chemical Industry (CNEL Code B011)

Salary Range: €56800 - €78100gross peryear

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.

JOB PURPOSE

This role exists to ensure operational excellence across manufacturing operations, drive continuous improvement, and lead the transformation towards world-class manufacturing standards within Unilever’s Casalpusterlengo factory. The Operations Manager plays a critical role in delivering superior performance across safety, quality, productivity, cost, customer service, and sustainability while developing high-performing teams and embedding a culture of operational discipline and innovation.

You’ll be part of a team that believes in doing work that matters - for people and the planet.

Because here, we don’t just hire for jobs. We invite you to be part of something bigger.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• 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.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 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.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 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.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Benefits (in line withthecurrent company policy):

• Smart working

• -Company Canteen

• Health and Life insurance

• Digital Learning Academy

• Company shop & discounts

• Mental & Physical wellbeing programs

• Enhanced parental leave

Tools:

• PC

The compensation package and contractual level will be defined based on the candidate’s experience, technical skills, and seniority, as well as in alignment with internal equity principles.

Ifyou’dlike to learn moreabout our benefits and policies,further details will be provided by Unilever’s Talent Acquisition team!

Pleasesubmityour application in English.

NOTE:

Please apply online and you are more than welcome to add your Future Fit Plan.

Your application will be reviewed against our requirements and we will be in touch to provide you with an update on the status of your application.

By applying for this vacancy, you are confirming that you have made your Line Manager aware of your application and that you are at a point in your career with Unilever where it is appropriate for you to be applying for other position.

Unilever is an organisation committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our diverse employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. At Unilever we are interested in every individual bringing their ‘Whole Self’ to work and this includes you! Thus if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.