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
* 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
* Hybrid working available following onboarding
* Personalised development and career progression plan
* 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.
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