Manufacturing Operations & Digital Transformation Lead (KTP Associate)

Job description:

Are you an engineer or manufacturing professional looking to take the next step in your career? Do you have an interest in operational improvement, digital transformation and the opportunity to lead meaningful change within a growing manufacturing business? We have an exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Operations & Digital Transformation Lead (KTP Associate) to join AMRC Cymru and Leader Optec on an ambitious three-year programme, reshaping how one of the UK's most specialist fibre-optic manufacturers operates, plans and grows.

A KTP connects academic expertise with a real business challenge, embedding you within a company to lead a strategic project, jointly supported by industry and academia. You will be based predominantly at Leader Optec working across the production floor, planning office, and senior leadership team to implement practical manufacturing improvements, develop integrated digital tools and introduce more effective, data-driven ways of working. You'll spend regular time at AMRC Cymru, drawing on a wider network of manufacturing research expertise, and will receive funded KTP training and a dedicated personal development plan throughout.

Founded in 1993, Leader Optec is a premier UK manufacturer of bespoke, installation-ready fibre-optic cable assemblies for harsh-environment applications. The business serves over 200 repeat customers annually including BT, Siemens and Formula 1 teams, across telecoms, aerospace, defence, broadcast and marine sectors. With a skilled, close-knit team of around 35 people, Leader Optec is expanding its presence in high-value markets and investing in this KTP to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities, improve operational efficiency and support sustainable business growth.

You'll hold a degree in engineering, manufacturing, operations management or a related discipline (or equivalent relevant industry experience), with an interest in Lean manufacturing, operational improvement and digital systems.

You'll be self-motivated, adaptable and confident taking initiative to develop and implement practical solutions within a live manufacturing environment. You'll have strong problem-solving and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence people across all levels of a business.

We're looking for someone who can take ownership of a challenging transformation programme, combining technical capability with the ambition to develop into an operational leadership role.

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