At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and coach high-performing teams.
- Company: Join Arla, a global leader in the dairy industry with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary starting from £43,585+, growth opportunities, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diversity and collaboration are key to our success; we value your authentic self.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on operational excellence and drive sustainable improvements from day one.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in a similar role, strong analytical skills, and experience in food or dairy manufacturing.
Lockerbie DG11 Mon – Fri Days 37.5 hours 8-4
Are you passionate about continuous improvement, data analysis, operational excellence and developing high-performing teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment? We’re looking for an Area Specialist to join our Operations team at Arla Lockerbie, where you’ll play a critical role in improving equipment performance, reducing losses and developing operational capability across your Line-Centred Organization (LCO) area.
As the operational expert within your area, you’ll work closely with operators, technical operators, maintenance teams, and site leadership to deliver sustainable improvements in safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys using data to drive decisions while coaching others to achieve operational excellence.
How you will make an impact
As an Area Specialist, you’ll lead continuous improvement activities across your operational area, ensuring equipment performance, operational standards and team capability continue to develop. You’ll combine technical expertise, analytical thinking and people development to deliver measurable business improvements.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading weekly Continuous Improvement meetings focused on equipment performance, downtime reduction and OEE improvement.
- Analysing production and asset performance data to identify losses, determine root causes and implement sustainable improvements.
- Developing and maintaining operational standards, SOPs and Operational Asset Care processes to ensure consistent performance.
- Coaching and developing operators and technical operators to build capability and strengthen team performance.
- Supporting the implementation and adoption of new digital tools, systems and technologies across the production area.
The role sits within the Operations function and works closely with Maintenance, Continuous Improvement and Site Leadership Teams.
What will make you successful
We’re looking for someone who enjoys solving problems, influencing others and driving continuous improvement through both people and process.
You will ideally hold a technical, dairy, food production or engineering-related qualification, or have equivalent experience within a manufacturing environment. Experience within food, dairy or FMCG manufacturing would be highly advantageous.
You’ll bring:
- At least 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
- Lean six sigma green belt or above is highly desirable.
- Strong analytical skills with experience using production performance data to drive operational improvements.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
- Experience using systems such as SAP, Power BI, Excel or similar performance reporting tools.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to coach, engage and influence colleagues at all levels.
- Experience supporting process improvements, operational excellence initiatives or digital transformation projects.
What do we offer?
Salary starting from £43,585+ depending on experience. At Arla, you’ll join a collaborative and supportive Operations team committed to achieving world-class manufacturing performance. You’ll work alongside experienced colleagues who are passionate about continuous improvement and helping each other succeed.
We’re committed to helping our people grow, providing opportunities to expand your technical expertise, develop new skills and build a rewarding long-term career. You’ll work alongside experienced colleagues who will support your development while giving you the opportunity to make a real impact from day one.
Would you like to join us? The closing date for applications is 21 August. For additional information, please contact James Paisley, Recruitment Coordinator jampa@arlafoods.com
We are devoted to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Diversity and collaboration are key to our success, propelling us to new heights in the dairy industry.
Shape the Future of Dairy
Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to enabling good food choices that make life better, providing people with natural, sustainable nourishment, while taking care at every step to ensure Arla is a choice they can feel good about. If you are looking to shape the future with an ambitious global cooperative that truly cares about your growth, where everyone feels valued and empowered, and collaboration is the core of culture, Arla is a choice you can feel good about.
Area Specialist - Operations employer: Arla
Arla Lockerbie is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, where continuous improvement and operational excellence are at the forefront. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. With a commitment to sustainability and a culture that values every team member, Arla is dedicated to helping you thrive in your career while shaping the future of dairy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Specialist - Operations
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Arla, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Specialist - Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Arla specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arla
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Arla, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Arla value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
