The Operations Leadership Program (OLP) was introduced in 1984 with the immediate goal of improving our available manufacturing resources while simultaneously creating a pool of high-potential candidates for significant management positions. This process starts by recruiting candidates at select, targeted schools with highly regarded engineering programs.
The Operations Leadership Program is designed to build on the existing technical skills of participants by exposing them to experienced Cooper professionals through four six-month assignments in two locations. The four assignments are in the following areas: manufacturing engineering, materials management, Manufacturing Variance Program (MVP) and shop supervision. In addition, participants may also gain exposure to assignments in the safety/environmental, quality and sourcing arenas.
Program Assignments
Manufacturing Engineering
Manufacturing engineering assignments range from product design through shop-floor manufacturing support. Assignments require the ability to visualize how the product can be produced in the most logical, safe and cost-effective manner. Assignments may include the following:
Materials Management
The materials management assignment includes projects regarding raw materials and finished goods, purchasing, scheduling, logistics and inventory management. Assignments may include the following:
Manufacturing Variance Program (MVP)
The quest for quality and continuous improvement is a critical element of Cooper's continued growth. This function requires the development and implementation of systems that assure our facilities run at optimal efficiency. Assignments in MVP may include the following:
Shop Supervision
The skilled manufacturing supervisor combines the latest manufacturing technology and trained personnel to produce a quality product, on time and at a competitive cost. The supervisor is in the middle of the action as a team-builder, facilitator and problem-solver. Assignments include the following:
Environmental Health & Safety
The safety and well being of Cooper employees is given the highest priority at our facilities. Assignments may include the following:
Qualifications
Successful candidates typically have:
As a supplement to the day-to-day experiences gained during the rotational assignments, Cooper conducts three in-depth week-long workshops for all Leadership Program participants during their 2-3 years of training. These workshops are taught by experienced Cooper managers who provide insight on Cooper’s strategy and operating principles, manufacturing concepts, leadership, and finance.
Values and Practices - An Introduction to Cooper Industries (Houston, TX)
The Values and Practices Workshop provides first-year program participants with an introduction to Cooper's operating principles and philosophies. Topics at this workshop focus on Cooper’s 5 Strategic Business Initiatives: Customer Loyalty, Innovation, Globalization, Talent Development and Operational Excellence. The Values and Practices Workshop is a great opportunity to network with fellow Leadership Program participants and gain visibility and exposure to the leadership at Cooper. Individual skills such as time management and leadership are also presented at this workshop. The Values and Practices Workshop is conducted each August, shortly after the majority of Leadership Program participants join the Company.
Finance for Non-Financial Managers Workshop (Houston, TX)
The Finance for Non-Financial Managers Workshop is conducted during the second year of the Leadership Programs and provides in-depth exposure to Cooper's financial systems and practices. The workshop begins by covering general finance and accounting concepts and continues through Cooper's approach to cash flow, cash decision making, operational budgeting and performance reporting. The course is taught by key financial professionals from the Corporate Office. Newly acquired financial skills are then integrated together through the use of a team case study, business simulation and group presentation.
Manufacturing Excellence (Cooper manufacturing location)
The Manufacturing Excellence Workshop is presented during the Leadership Program participants’ third year and serves as a graduation ceremony for all participants. This workshop provides a sound understanding of the major functions within the manufacturing environment at Cooper and further develops the individual's management and leadership skills. Manufacturing topics presented at this workshop include: production, quality, and materials management techniques. Skill based training includes supervisory and teamwork training and prevention skills management. Participants integrate these skills through comprehensive lean and continuous improvement activities to improve the overall operations at the Cooper manufacturing facility at which the workshop is held.
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