Position Title: Continuous Improvement Manager
Location: Milton Keynes, UK – Onsite
Position Overview
The Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for driving productivity and process improvements at our Milton Keynes facility, with a focus on Thermoplastic Hot Melts and Pressure Sensitive Adhesives. This leadership role applies innovative thinking and engineering principles to achieve year-over-year improvements in manufacturing efficiency, yield, and quality. The position works collaboratively with site leaders to deliver value through operational excellence and sustainable performance gains.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Drive productivity and process improvements across manufacturing operations in Milton Keynes.
2. Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and OEE methodologies.
3. Partner with site functions (manufacturing, supply chain, R&D, sales, marketing, finance) to deliver process and product improvements.
4. Participate in the development and exchange of best practices across the EIMEA region and globally.
5. Support new product and process introductions, trials, and scale-ups to full manufacturing.
6. Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing challenges, ensuring timely corrective actions.
7. Track, analyze, and report KPIs to demonstrate ROI and sustainable performance gains.
8. Coach and develop teams to build a culture of continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.
Minimum Requirements
9. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical or Process Engineering.
10. Minimum 5 years of experience in process or applications engineering.
11. At least 3 years in adhesives, specialty chemicals, or a related industry.
12. Proven ability to evaluate, design, and optimize manufacturing processes.
13. Project management experience, with a record of delivering projects on time and on budget.
14. Strong leadership skills and ability to act as Plant Manager delegate when required.
15. Demonstrated application of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
16. Proficiency in MS Office and MS Project; strong written and spoken English.
17. Commitment to QEHS standards ensuring a safe working culture.
Preferred Requirements
18. Minimum 3 years’ experience with thermoplastic materials, ideally hot melt adhesives.
19. Project management certification.
20. Lean Six Sigma certification (Green or Black Belt).
21. Training in continuous improvement practices.
22. Experience with SAP or other MRP systems.