Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager

Location: Aylesbury Innovation Centre.

Salary: £50,000 – £60,000.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the definitive subject matter expert and strategic partner to the operational business, designing and governing the overarching CI roadmap and portfolio of initiatives across the business.
• Horizon‑scan for industry best practices, advanced manufacturing techniques, and technological advancements, integrating these into the operational strategy.
• Architect, implement, and continuously govern the CI framework, ensuring project methodologies (DMAIC, Kaizen, Lean) are consistently applied, measured, and integrated into daily operations.
• Lead complex, cross‑functional root‑cause investigations, focusing on systemic process improvements, waste reduction, and capacity unblocking.
• Own CI reporting, focusing on leading indicators, hard/soft financial savings, and ROI on process improvements.
• Translate raw operational data and project outcomes into actionable business intelligence for the Senior Leadership Team, escalating critical strategic recommendations with urgency.
• Maintain a highly visible site presence to identify bottlenecks and lead a proactive “find‑it, fix‑it” mentality.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt qualification is strictly essential.
• Complementary qualifications such as PRINCE2, Agile/Scrum, or Change Management certifications are highly advantageous.
• Seasoned, demonstrable experience driving continuous improvement within a complex, high‑speed manufacturing environment (FMCG, Pharmaceuticals, or Cosmetics strongly preferred).
• Proven experience successfully managing, influencing, and governing projects within a matrix organisation, without always having direct line‑management authority.

Technical Expertise & Attributes

• Deep, applied expertise in Lean manufacturing principles and CI methodologies (Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Kanban, OEE optimisation).
• Strong analytical skills with a data‑driven approach, including capacity modelling, financial benefits tracking, and translating complex operational metrics into clear insights.
• Expert ability to deploy CI tools pragmatically in an environment balancing rapid innovation with strict quality and compliance standards.
• A natural coach, mentor, and strategic partner, with outstanding communication skills and the ability to build credibility, influence, and engage at all levels.
• A visible and engaging champion for change with high emotional intelligence, resilience, and a genuine passion for transforming an operational culture.
• A highly organised, methodical problem‑solver with a relentless focus on scalable excellence and a pragmatic “find‑it, fix‑it” mentality.

Benefits

• Well‑being: 25 days holiday + bank holidays; Flexible & hybrid working; Private Medical Insurance; Mental Health support.
• Rewards: 75% discount + annual product allowance; annual performance bonus; long‑service awards.
• Growth: up‑skilling support; regular lunch & learns; flexible career opportunities.
• Impact: 2 volunteering days per year; matched charitable giving scheme.

We are committed to cultivating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered. We support fair chance hiring, blind recruiting, disability confidence, and immigration integrity.

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