Job Description
Continuous Improvement Manager | Lean Transformation & Operational Excellence
Defence / Aerospace Manufacturing & Engineering Sector
Drive Lean transformation and operational excellence within one of the UK's most respected engineering and defence organisations.
We are seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement Manager who can challenge existing ways of working, facilitate cross-functional improvement activity and embed sustainable Lean practices across a complex engineering, manufacturing and supply chain environment.
This is a highly visible role within a world-class defence manufacturer, focused on improving operational performance across sourcing, procurement and supply chain functions. You'll work closely with engineering, finance, operations and sourcing teams to identify opportunities, remove inefficiencies and deliver measurable business improvements.
If you enjoy influencing stakeholders, facilitating workshops, solving problems and driving meaningful change, this role offers genuine autonomy, impact and long-term career development.
The Role
As Continuous Improvement Manager, you will be responsible for leading Lean transformation and operational excellence initiatives across sourcing and supply chain operations, helping teams improve performance, efficiency and delivery capability.
Key Responsibilities
Lead Lean transformation and Continuous Improvement initiatives across sourcing, procurement and supply chain functions
Facilitate Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping workshops and structured problem-solving activities
Challenge existing processes and identify opportunities to improve flow, reduce waste and enhance operational performance
Work closely with engineering, finance, operations and sourcing teams to drive measurable improvements
Use data, KPIs, ERP/SAP systems and operational performance metrics to identify improvement opportunities and track benefits
Develop governance frameworks, performance reporting and Continuous Improvement roadmaps
Coach and support teams in Lean methodologies and Continuous Improvement techniques
Manage and develop a Continuous Improvement Analyst
Support operational readiness within a highly regulated engineering and manufacturing environment
Embed a culture of Continuous Improvement and operational excellence across the organisation
What Success Looks Like
In this role you will:
Challenge established ways of working and identify opportunities for improvement
Facilitate improvement activity that delivers measurable operational and commercial benefits
Help teams adopt Lean thinking and Continuous Improvement methodologies
Improve operational flow, governance and decision-making processes
Build strong relationships across engineering, sourcing, finance and operational teams
Create a culture where Continuous Improvement becomes part of everyday operations
Deliver sustainable improvements that enhance business performance and customer delivery
We're Looking For Someone Who Has
Proven experience leading Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence or Lean Transformation programmes
Strong practical experience facilitating Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping workshops and structured problem-solving sessions
A proven track record of delivering measurable operational improvements through Lean methodologies
Experience influencing stakeholders across engineering, manufacturing, operations, procurement, sourcing or supply chain environments
The ability to challenge existing processes and gain buy-in for change
Experience developing governance frameworks, KPI reporting and improvement roadmaps
Strong workshop facilitation, communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Experience using ERP/SAP systems and operational performance data
Previous leadership, coaching or mentoring experience
Highly Desirable
Experience within defence, aerospace, manufacturing, engineering or other highly regulated operational environments
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt or equivalent Continuous Improvement qualifications
Experience supporting supply chain, sourcing, procurement or operational readiness activities
Exposure to Lean deployment, Continuous Improvement governance or operational excellence programmes at site or business-unit level
This Is Not a "PowerPoint CI" Role
You'll spend time engaging directly with operational teams, facilitating workshops, challenging assumptions and helping stakeholders solve real business problems.
Success in this role will come from your ability to influence people, build credibility, lead change and deliver practical improvements — not simply produce reports and dashboards.
You'll have the opportunity to make a visible impact within a business known globally for engineering excellence, innovation and long-term investment in its people.
Why Join?
Competitive salary and benefits package
Uxbridge, West London
Hybrid working available following onboarding
Early finish every Friday
Personalised development and career progression plan
9% non-contributory pension
Healthcare plan
Cycle to Work scheme
25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave
Interested?
If you're an experienced Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence or Lean professional looking to join a highly respected engineering and manufacturing organisation where you can genuinely influence change and make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you.
Apply now with your CV or contact us for a confidential discussion.