Head of Automation & Control Systems

Alexander Steele has partnered with a leading global food manufacturer that has an exciting new opportunity for a Head of Operational Technology to oversee and lead their automation and control systems infrastructure strategy across six of their sites nationwide. Key responsibilities Lead a team of Operational Technology Consultants and work together with maintenance technicians on sites to assist, coach and train as appropriate, skills needed to support the sites automation infrastructure. Support and develop a diverse architecture from leading edge Operational Technology Information systems to obsolete control devices, whilst strategically driving towards improved standardisation, thus minimising downtime due to control and data systems infrastructure improvements. Liaise with the global IT teams, external delivery partners and the global supply chain teams, to proactively manage the control systems arena, with particular focus on strategy and planning. Creating and maintaining roadmaps for rolling 5 years of systems development and obsolescence planning, using this information to plan and prioritise for capital funding applications. Candidate Requirements Engineering qualification in relevant discipline such as Control & Automation, Mechatronics, Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, Information Technology or equivalent. 18th Edition and other relevant Operational Technology certifications will be advantageous. Good technical knowledge and experience of controls and automation systems, primarily Siemens PLCs, WinCC SCADA, Iconics Genesis SCADA, Rockwell Logix platform, systems integration, IT hardware and software. Control & Automation Management experience in a FMCG, Pharmaceutical, Chemicals or similar manufacturing environment. Strong people leadership and the ability to mentor a diverse team. On Offer: £75K to £85K + Car Allowance + 15% Bonus Pension + Private Healthcare 25 leave days + 8 bank holidays The role can be fully remote, with frequent travel to UK manufacturing sites.