Continuous Improvement (CI) Lead
Contract: Permanent | Full-time
Reports to: Manufacturing Manager
Overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Continuous Improvement Lead to drive Operational Excellence and Lean transformation across a fast-paced manufacturing site. This role plays a key part in achieving world-class standards in Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost, while embedding a strong culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and facilitate the site’s annual Productivity Improvement Programme, ensuring all initiatives are tracked, reviewed, and reported monthly.
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Coach and mentor teams at all levels, encouraging ideas generation and fostering a culture of innovation.
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Identify and manage multiple CI projects using established Lean principles and structured governance.
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Develop and maintain data-driven performance metrics, ensuring productivity and programme health data are kept accurate and up to date.
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Deliver business cases and analytical reports to support process improvements and cost-saving initiatives.
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Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Technical teams to optimise manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
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Conduct post-implementation reviews to verify success and implement robust control plans.
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Support and train teams in Lean tools and methodologies, including 5S, Kaizen, problem-solving, and standard work.
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Develop a site-wide CI strategy aligned with business objectives and promote collaboration across departments and other sites.
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Drive profitability and growth through targeted process improvements and sustainable practices.
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Participate in new product introductions and strategic projects, ensuring alignment with CI goals and operational excellence.
Key Skills & Experience
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Proven experience in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence within a manufacturing or production environment.
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Strong analytical and data-driven approach with excellent problem-solving skills.
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Confident communicator with the ability to influence and engage teams across all levels.
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Proficiency in Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, DMAIC, and Root Cause Analysis.
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Competent in data reporting and presentation using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, or similar tools.
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Strong leadership skills with a hands-on approach and a passion for driving cultural change.
Desirable
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Six Sigma qualification (Green or Black Belt).
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Experience with digital data capture or process control systems.
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Exposure to multi-site collaboration within a manufacturing group