* Continuous improvement and change management leadership experience
* New product development plant trials and process
About Our Client
My client is a stable, global high-volume food manufacturer specializing in short shelf-life products, serving major retailers both nationally and internationally across Europe. Based in Southall, London, this is a unique opportunity to join their Operational Excellence team, working cross-functionally with the Product Development team on new product trials and other manufacturing improvement initiatives.
Job Description
30% NPD Process / Method Engineering
* Lead NPD trials for new products, defining and controlling machinery settings to enhance safety, quality, and performance.
* Continuously improve machinery settings and ensure the team is trained to use them correctly, maintaining up-to-date training records.
* Analyze NPD trial yields and losses, collaborating with teams to produce trial reports and provide mass balancing support.
* Support NPD project management, ensuring process optimization and stakeholder collaboration.
* Maintain document control for products, machinery settings, and quality standards.
* Work with stakeholders to establish clear visual management and maintain high standards, SOPs, and expectations.
* Assist the production team in meeting production, quality, and HACCP targets, ensuring products meet customer specifications.
* Collaborate with Controls Engineer to maintain up-to-date machine software and ensure compliance with product requirements.
* Engage with Quality and Controls Engineer to ensure checkweighers meet performance standards and reporting requirements.
* Participate in integrating new equipment or methods.
* Compile and present data reports in an accessible, standardized format.
* Provide technical and people management support to the team
70% Operational Excellence
* Collaborate with the Operational Excellence Manager on Site and Group strategy development and governance.
* Promote a CI culture using tools like SIMs, 8D, 5 Whys, RCA, and SIM audits.
* Monitor OEE to improve plant efficiency, identify DMAIC and A3 projects, and coach teams.
* Manage KPIs and lead forums to align performance with senior management goals.
* Develop data systems for continuous improvement and support data-driven decisions.
* Participate in group meetings, follow guidelines, and lead presentations.
* Conduct site benchmarking and improve KPI performance through team engagement.
* Apply CI tools (e.g., SMED, 5S, Visual Management) to drive performance improvement.
* Support the Operational Excellence financial roadmap and monitor project progress.
* Provide lean training and maintain manufacturing data integrity through Power BI.
* Set standards for continuous improvement, audit SIM processes, and assist with Excel tools.
* Conduct efficiency studies and benchmarking, provide coverage for the Operational Excellence Manager.
* Collaborate on corrective actions, support new equipment integration, and manage capital projects.
* Lead improvement projects, manage CI communications, and ensure HR policy compliance.
The Successful Applicant
* Must have experience in Continuous Improvement (CI) or Process Engineering within high-volume food manufacturing, specifically with short shelf-life products or baked goods.Yellow Belt Six Sigma trained, with potential to progress to Green Belt.
* Ideally certified in Food Safety, IOSH, and HACCP.
* Proficient in Power BI, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access.
* Advanced Excel skills, including Visual Basic coding for macros, Power Queries, Power Pivot, and KPI dashboard development.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
* Excellent people management and leadership skills, demonstrating humility and respect for individuals.
* Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
* Commercially aware with strong organizational and coordination skills.
* Technical knowledge in plant, processes, and products.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
* A team player, able to collaborate across levels and with external parties.
* High numeracy and experience managing projects, particularly in operational efficiency, operational excellence, or NPD.
* At least 3 years of experience in food manufacturing, ideally in Operational Excellence or food production management.
What's on Offer
* Salary: £45-50K
* Benefits package including pension, health, and more
* Opportunities for professional growth and exposure within a large company
* Work in a high-volume, fast-paced environment
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