Manufacturing Operation Leader

About the Role

For our manufacturing site in Lucca (Porcari), we are looking for an Operations Leader for the Paper Mill department. In this role, you will be responsible for approximately 35 people, including 4 direct reports and the related operational staff. You will manage the full production organization, with an integrated focus on the 5Ms (Manpower, Machines, Materials, Methods, and Measurements), reporting directly to the Operations Manager of the site. The Lucca 1 site employs around 150 people and is composed of a Paper Mill department with two continuous machines, and a converting department with dedicated lines for hankies and napkins. Location: Porcari ( LU)

What You Will Do

• Be a reference point for safety: you will be responsible for developing the organizational capabilities needed to achieve expected results, providing leadership, clear direction, and coaching. Safety First.
• Take full ownership of the 5Ms, in line with SQCDM objectives (Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Morale).
• Promote Continuous Improvement on both a daily and strategic level, applying advanced manufacturing methodologies (TPM, 5S, HMEX tools and practices), and fostering collaboration across teams and functions.
• Ensure the achievement of production goals across all key dimensions: safety, quality, cost efficiency, delivery performance, and team morale — with no compromises.
• Manage the department’s operational budget and identify CAPEX needs to support the medium- and long-term strategic vision.
• Lead the performance management process, ensuring consistent people management and handling any disciplinary actions in a structured and responsible manner.

Who You Are

• You hold a degree in Engineering (preferably in Management, Mechanical, Chemical or equivalent fields) and have of experience in production operations management and people leadership.
• You have a strong understanding of production processes; experience in the tissue sector is considered a plus, but it is not essential.
• You have a solid Continuous Improvement mindset, with a structured approach to problem solving and process optimization.
• You are a proactive, results-oriented person, ready to take on challenges and drive a positive cultural change within the team.
• You have developed strong people management and development skills, with a natural inclination for team building and enhancing individual potential.
• You have a genuine passion for developing talent: you see yourself as a coach and a leader who builds other leaders.
• You have excellent communication and negotiation skills, and you are able to work effectively in both Italian and English.
• You know how to build strong and collaborative relationships with colleagues and stakeholders at all organizational levels.

What We Can Offer You

• Competitive compensation package, commensurate with experience and role responsibilities.
• The opportunity to join a global company recognized for innovation, sustainability, and people development.
• A key role within a structured and dynamic production environment, with direct impact on operational excellence.
• Autonomy and responsibility in managing a team and driving continuous improvement.
• A clear path for professional and leadership development, with access to internal training and learning resources.
• A company culture that promotes collaboration, inclusion, and well-being, where your contribution makes a difference.

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