Site OPEX Lead

Site OPEX Lead Job Introduction

Why Dechra? Thank you for checking out our vacancy, we're delighted you want to learn more about joining Dechra. A career at Dechra is different. Sure, we're a growing global company with a presence in 27 countries but our purpose is simple – to achieve the sustainable improvement of animal health and welfare globally.

If you want to be part of a team that invests in your future and ensures you have the support to reach your full potential and thrive, please read on.

This role is representing essential Operational Excellence Lead responsibilities to support the sites strategic plans and is responsible for continuous improvement efforts using relevant process improvement methods, driving project management by implementation of the One Dechra Production System (ODPS) standards and coaching local management and team members to achieve a step change in the performance of the site in terms of safety, quality, delivery, sustainability and cost competitiveness while engaging and empowering the site employees.

• Support the Site Director and SLT in defining the site strategy, setting goals and creating implementation plans. Help maintain strong governance by challenging decisions, ensuring accountability and tracking delivery of commitments and KPIs in alignment with the DM&S Opex Lead.
• Drive continuous improvement across the site using methods such as PPI, Lean, Kaizen, PDCA, Six Sigma etc ensuring all activities support the Site Strategic Plan and contribute to Zero Harm, Zero Defects and Zero Waste.
• Lead the deployment plan of ODPS, ensuring daily processes are measured, analysed and improved using Standard Work and best practice principles.
• Maintain and standardise operational processes through Process Confirmation and ensure ODPS is consistently used to build capability across site teams.
• Establish disciplined daily, weekly and monthly routines that support ongoing performance improvement and alignment with site strategy.
• Coach and train site teams in ODPS tools, behaviours and continuous improvement mindsets, using standard training modules and acting as a role model for Dechra Values.
• Support consistent progress across the site, share lessons learned and benchmark performance against other sites and industry peers.
• Embed appropriate KPIs and reporting processes across the site to ensure clear visibility of performance.
• Deliver training independently and with the site team, helping develop internal subject matter experts and training Opex champions. Communicate complex concepts clearly to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Work with OEMs to optimise equipment‑related work practices and ensure efficient, user‑friendly processes.

• Proven experience of delivering technical training in a manufacturing or regulated environment.
• Excellent coaching and communication skills including giving effective performance feedback.
• Significant knowledge of how to carry out training needs analysis and assess competency.
• Experience in designing instructional technical training to appeal to a range of learning styles.
• Experience in designing technical course content.
• Knowledge of modern training techniques and tools in technical subjects.
• Experience working within a regulated environment such as GMP, Pharmaceuticals, Food production, aeronautical, automotive etc.
• Degree in a related subject.

• Occasional global travel may be required with this role.
• This role is based in Skipton on site.

• Due to the nature of our business, all successful candidates will be required to complete a basic DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service check) before employment can commence, and at regular intervals during employment. This check will be paid for by Dechra.
• Average 36‑hour working week (with a day off every other Friday!)
• Plenty of training and development opportunities.
• 22.5 days annual leave + Bank holidays.
• Option to buy a week’s holiday each year.
• 9‑day fortnight.
• Healthcare.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Life Assurance.
• 8% Employer Pension Contribution.
• Enhanced Family Leave.
• Car / Car Allowance (discretionary).
• Bonus…