Head of Make Operations chez Diageo

Head of Make Operations

About us

With over 200 brands in nearly 180 countries, Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks company – home to Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Baileys and Bundaberg Rum. In Australia, we’re 400+ people strong with our head office in Sydney, a major manufacturing site in Sydney’s west, our iconic Bundaberg Distillery, and a passionate sales team nationwide.

We’re powered by inclusion, diversity, and a flexible working culture that’s role-modelled at every level.

About the role

As Head of Make Operations, you’ll lead one of our Tier 3 manufacturing sites to deliver world-class performance across safety, quality, service, and cost. You’ll be a visible, inspiring leader, spending time on the shop floor while driving strategy, continuous improvement, and breakthrough results.

You will:

• Deliver against the balanced scorecard – improving productivity, OEE, COGS, service (OTIF), and governance KPIs.

• Lead the MMS journey to build performance, standards, capability, and asset care.

• Own site strategy, long-range planning, and the annual operating plan.

• Champion safety, quality, environmental and compliance standards (ISO/HACCP).

• Coach and develop leaders and teams, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.

What you need to bring to this role

• Degree qualification in engineering, business, supply chain or science, or equivalent experience (NEBOSH qualified).

• At least 10 years’ experience with a strong track record in FMCG manufacturing/production.

• Proven expertise in packaging, processing and plant technologies.

• Fluent English is essential.

• A proven champion of manufacturing excellence tools, systems and leadership practices.

• Demonstrated ability to build a high-performance climate across large, multi-disciplinary teams.

• Experience partnering with employee groups and representatives in a leadership capacity.

• A strong track record as a coach, with excellent engagement and communication skills.

• Sound financial acumen and commercial awareness.

Working with us

Flexibility is key to success, and we’ll work with you to make sure you’re supported from day one. We offer a competitive Rewards & Benefits package and a culture where everyone belongs, thrives, and is celebrated for who they are.

At Diageo, our purpose is simple but powerful: to celebrate life, every day, everywhere. Join us and shape the next chapter of our iconic brands.