Operations Manager

Manufacturing & Production · Production & Assembly · Production Management · Manufacturing Engineering

In short

Alfa Laval Switzerland AG is looking for an experienced Operations Manager in Allschwil to take full end-to-end responsibility for customer order execution. This role involves leading a team of 35 people, shaping operational strategy, and driving continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate has extensive leadership and industrial experience, a strong understanding of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

Lead and develop the organization through direct-report managers, driving business performance, leadership excellence, and organizational development.
Drive cross-functional collaboration and remove organizational or process barriers that impact operational performance and efficiency.
Establish clear vision, plans, priorities, and KPIs to ensure reliable delivery of products and services at cost, on time, and with quality.
Assess, prioritize, and budget capital investment, technologies, and digitalization needs.
Secure effective and standardized work & SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
Anticipate operational risks and bottlenecks and take proactive action to secure delivery performance and customer satisfaction.
Ensure a strong customer-centric mindset throughout the operations organization & act as a senior escalation point for critical operational issues.
Strengthen the link between customer requirements, quality requirements, engineering execution, and production until delivery.
Lead and embed a culture of continuous improvement across the organization and implement ALPS methodology.
Promote structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis to eliminate recurring issues and prevent rework.
Build a high-performing organization with clear accountability, strong collaboration, and a shared commitment to customer success.
Develop leadership capabilities and ensure the right competencies and organizational structure are in place to support current and future business needs.
Partner with other departments to support the development of the Alfa Laval Switzerland AG site.
Ensure full compliance with all applicable legal, code, and certification requirements, as well as Alfa Laval Group policies and procedures.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, or a related technical field.
A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in operations, manufacturing, industrial engineering, or a comparable environment, with significant leadership responsibility.
Proven experience leading multi-functional operations in an industrial or engineered-to-order manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing teams and leaders across multiple functions.
Proven track record of delivering measurable improvements in productivity, quality, delivery performance, and cost efficiency.
Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Operational Excellence, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Strong results-oriented mindset, with experience with KPI management, structured problem-solving, root-cause analysis, and process standardization.
Ability to balance strategic priorities with hands-on operational execution.
Strong business acumen and the ability to understand the link between operational performance, customer satisfaction, and financial results.
Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
Fluency in French and in English both written and spoken.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.

Desired Qualifications

A Lean Six Sigma certification (e.g., Green Belt or Black Belt) is an advantage, but proven practical experience in driving continuous improvement and operational performance will also be considered.
Experience with ERP and other digital operational management tools is an advantage.
"Yes, We Can" Mindset: Approach challenges with positivity and determination.
Customer Orientation: Always put the customer first and strive to exceed expectations.
Alignment with Alfa Laval Values: Embrace innovation, teamwork, customer focus, sustainability, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact.

Benefits

Opportunity to make a real difference in a global industrial company.
Business where operational excellence has a direct impact on customers and reputation.
Open, collaborative, and supportive environment.
Initiative is encouraged.
Continuous improvement is part of the culture.
Leadership can have a tangible impact on future success.

Skills

LeanSix SigmaMicrosoft OfficeERP

#operations management#manufacturing#engineering#lean manufacturing#six sigma#continuous improvement#supply chain

About Alfa Laval

Our pioneering 140-year-old start-up culture is built on the idea that partnership is the key to solving complex problems and unlocking the full potential of resources. So we collaborate closely with our partners, customers, and thought leaders to create game-changing solutions that challenge conventional thinking on quality, efficiency, and innovation. United by a shared commitment to creating positive impact we’re reshaping vital industries, like energy, food, water, and shipping, to optimize efficiency, reduce emissions, and increase yields. Together, we’re building business success,…

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