Scope of the Role
We have a fantastic opportunity for an individual to join our Manufacturing department in Penallta, South Wales. You will be responsible for driving a culture of operational excellence and process improvement across the manufacturing facility. This role leads the identification, analysis, and execution of initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, improve quality, and optimise overall performance. The CI Manager will be responsible for partnering with cross-functional teams to implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to achieve measurable results aligned with business goals.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
· Lead and facilitate Lean and Six Sigma projects to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
· Drive automation and digitalization initiatives that enhance visibility and efficiency in production processes.
· Develop and implement continuous improvement strategies, policies, and procedures aligned with business objectives.
· Coach and train employees at all levels in Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, and waste elimination.
· Analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational data to identify opportunities for improvement.
· Collaborate with department managers to develop action plans that address process inefficiencies and performance gaps.
· Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping sessions, and root cause analysis activities.
· Standardise best practices across production lines and support documentation of new processes.
· Monitor and report progress of CI initiatives, ensuring sustainability of improvements and benefits.
· Support capital projects and new product introductions with process optimisation and workflow design.
· Champion a culture of employee engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
Key Skills & Competencies:
* Strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.
* Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
* Effective communicator with the ability to influence and lead cross-functional teams.
* Proficient in data analysis tools and Microsoft Office Suite
* Strong leadership and coaching abilities, coupled with strong influencing skills to foster engagement at all levels.
* Demonstrated ability to sustain continuous improvement initiatives and deliver quantifiable results.
Education & Experience:
· Qualification in engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management is preferred but not essential.
· Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years leading continuous improvement or operational excellence initiatives.
· Proven track record of successful Lean/Six Sigma project implementation (Black Belt qualification preferred).
Our People and Culture
At Design Group UK, we are one team, creating a workplace that is open and honest, where everyone feels respected, valued, heard, and contributes to our success. Our culture is the engine that drives us forward, and we believe it is essential to our ongoing success in building a sustainable future. We employ capable people with the attitude and aptitude to succeed and deliver, within an enabling environment.
About our People and the Recruitment Process
We're an inclusive employer and we welcome applications from everyone
We are guided by our values – Pace, Passion, People and Planet. We are committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to create an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds.
In return, we offer a range of employee benefits, including enhanced holidays and sickness scheme and holiday purchase scheme.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person