Overview We are looking for a Cell Leader for the Production team in our factory in Mantova, who will report to the Production Manager. In this role, you will be fully accountable for the Safety, Quality, People, Delivery, Cost, and Innovation (SQPDCI) results of a production cell, which includes multiple lines. The primary purpose of this role is to eliminate losses across the entire cell, remove barriers for the Line Leaders in the team, and ensure that each line achieves its business results in a Manufacturing Excellence environment. What You Will Do Target Deployment and Strategy Execution: Lead the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach for the cell to deploy objectives and track key business indicators. Work with the Reliability and Process Leaders to develop a loss map for the production lines and define a master plan of initiatives to achieve operational targets. Identify capability needs and drive development plans for the cell team. Performance Management: Oversee daily operational performance meetings, aligning with the Process Leader, Reliability Leader, and other support functions. The Cell Leader defines and reviews the daily action plan, focuses on priorities, ensures resource availability and alignment, and coaches a Run-To-Target culture. People Management: Accountable for all production personnel in the cell, including direct and temporary staff. Foster a High-Performance Organizational culture, promote accountability, and develop a backup system to handle staffing variability. Oversee the complete performance cycle for the team, including dialogues and salary reviews. Safety and Quality: Own and drive the cell-level safety performance, eliminating risks and potential hazards. Ensure consumer complaints and product rejections are minimized through robust quality systems. Cost and Innovation: Support loss mapping and drive cost reduction initiatives, such as improving labor, equipment, and material productivity. Participate in innovation initiatives, like new product launches or new equipment installations, ensuring the team’s early involvement and operational readiness. Who We Are Looking For Education: An Upper Secondary (High School Diploma) or Technical Degree is required; a University Degree in Engineering or a related field is preferred. Certifications or formal training in Lean, World Class Manufacturing, or similar methodologies are also preferable. Experience: Experience in shopfloor operations with proven capability in leading small teams (e.g., 5-10 operators). Hands-on experience in safety and quality compliance, problem-solving, and resolving technical issues within a manufacturing environment is essential. Competencies: Ability to lead multiple teams, manage conflict, and communicate clearly at all levels. Skilled in coaching and developing Line Leaders and high-potential talent. Capable of planning and executing cell-wide initiatives, aligning resources with business objectives. Functional Expertise: Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes and dynamics, including familiarity with operational equipment, basic maintenance processes, production scheduling systems, and Lean tools. Understanding of cost drivers and an analytical approach to identify gaps is necessary. What We Offer Discount on Amazon products Affinity University platform: Professional development opportunities for employees at different stages of their career, recognising different career paths. Celebration and fun Our Company Affinity Petcare is more than an international petfood company. For over 60 years we have been dedicated to nurturing healthy bonds between dogs, cats and people to make the world a better place. We are proud of our innovative brands, including Ultima, Advance, Brekkies, Nature\'s Variety, Nature\'s Menu, Natural Trainer, Libra and others. We have more than 1,200 professionals working with this purpose from Barcelona, Paris, Milan and London, as well as 4 production sites with which we supply more than 70 countries where our brands are present. So, what are you waiting for? Join our team to make your mark! Additional Information Seniority level: Mid-Senior level Employment type: Full-time Job function: Management and Manufacturing Industries: Food and Beverage Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Affinity Petcare. Get notified about new Cell Lead jobs in Mantua, Lombardy, Italy. Castelbelforte, Lombardy, Italy J-18808-Ljbffr