At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing excellence and drive continuous improvement in our chocolate production.
- Company: Join a top-rated chocolate manufacturer with a rich history and innovative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, chocolate perks, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model and a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while working with a beloved brand.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG, strong communication skills, and a degree or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are a premium chocolate manufacturer established in 1845 operating in over 86 countries around the World.
Guided by our Global purpose to Enchant the World with Chocolate and UK vision of Creating Moments to Make Everyone Feel Special, we have around 400 team members in the UK across our Head Office, Retail, and Field Sales divisions.
We are a Top 20 Great Place to Work and are proud of our incredible people, our unique values-led culture and our iconic market leading brands such as LINDOR & GOLD BUNNY.
We're also proud of being one of the few 'bean-to-bar' chocolate makers in the world, where we control every step of our chocolate production.
How you could help us to Enchant the World with Chocolate
In this role you will be rresponsible for delivering manufacturing excellence across all UK co‑packing operations, including full ownership of SRP and FDU execution, material readiness, pricing governance, and operational performance at 3PL sites.
Leads the Supply Chain infrastructure and systems project agenda, driving digitalisation, capability building, and continuous improvement to deliver best‑in‑class results.
Where you'll be based
This role is based in Richmond Upon Thames, London (Hybrid Working: in the office 60% and WFH 40%)
Key Responsibilities
- Manufacturing Excellence Management
- Lead 3PL execution of SRP co‑packing and FDU co‑packing, ensuring timely, accurate, and cost‑effective delivery
- Ensure material readiness, combining product, packaging, and operational planning to ensure flawless execution at 3PL sites
- Lead internal and external teams to deliver the highest‑quality output at the lowest cost
- Govern all co‑pack KPIs, including service, quality, cost, and productivity
- Ensure co‑pack plans align with demand, capacity, and commercial priorities
- Drive operational discipline, daily management routines, and structured problem‑solving at the 3PL
- Pricing & Commercial Governance for Co‑Packing
- Fully own the quotation process for all co‑packing activities (SRP & FDU).
- Agree, challenge, and communicate pricing with all relevant stakeholders
- Negotiate best‑value rates with 3PL partners, supported by Procurement where required
- Implement approved price changes through a robust, compliant, and auditable process
- Lead the execution, documentation, and sign‑off of all pricing changes
- Ensure pricing governance aligns with commercial, financial, and Supply Chain requirements
- Supply Chain Infrastructure & Systems Projects
- Act as project lead for all Supply Chain infrastructure and systems development initiatives
- Drive digitalisation and Industry 4.0‑aligned improvements, maximising the potential of 3PL systems such as Blue Yonder, Nulogy, and Centiro
- Lead cross‑functional teams to design, implement, and optimise systems that enhance visibility, accuracy, and operational performance
- Own project governance, risk management, timelines, and stakeholder communication
- Build long‑term capability and ensure new systems are scalable, compliant, and future‑proof
- NPD & Commercialisation Process Leadership
- Lead all manufacturing‑related elements of NPD implementation at 3PL sites
- Ensure robust processes, clearly communicated timelines and lead times, and effective coordination across manual and automated production lines
- Ensure capital investments are effectively utilised through optimal line selection, run strategy, and operational readiness
- Validate packaging, materials, and operational processes ahead of launch
- Challenge costs, timings, and feasibility to ensure commercially viable outcomes
- Partner with Marketing, Procurement, and Planning to ensure flawless execution of new product introductions
- Govern change management, trials, and first production runs
- Production Excellence & Continuous Improvement (LPW / Lean / CI)
- Develop and embed a
- LEAN culture and continuous improvement mindset across co‑packing operations
- Lead loss‑mapping, root‑cause analysis, and structured problem‑solving to drive performance improvement
- Implement LPW and other CI methodologies to deliver measurable gains in quality, cost, service, and productivity
- Lead daily, weekly, and monthly operational review routines with 3PL partners
- Drive KPI governance, ensuring accurate reporting, visibility of losses, and clear action plans
- Benchmark internally and externally to identify opportunities for step‑change improvement
- Manufacturing Projects & Capital Delivery
- Lead all manufacturing projects (capital, IT, operational) relating to 3PL operations
- Own the manufacturing capital expenditure budget
- Ensure all projects are delivered on time, in full, and to required quality and cost
- Provide technical leadership and challenge to ensure best‑in‑class solutions
- Be a member of the Supply Chain extended leadership team
- Be a great coach to the members of the supply chain team
- Collaborate effectively across functions, ensuring transparency and shared understanding of deliverables
- Contribute to the development of the longer‑term supply chain plan
- Demonstrate passion, commitment, and integrity in all activities
- Be proactive
- Lead, motivate, coach, and develop a team by setting clear priorities aligned to game plan objectives
- Lead cross functional ways of working ultimately ensuring alignment to and focus on business game plan
Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience Preferred
- Experience in similar position, preferably in FMCG environment
- Co packer or supplier management experience
- Strong communication and networking skills
- Engineering or TPM background a benefit
- Strong in MS Excel
- SAP Background and experience
- Educated to degree level, or equivalent
- Performance driven, tenacious and goal orientated
- Ability to work in a fast and dynamic organization while maintaining strong controls on co‑packing activities
- Able to work cross functionally and collaboratively both internally and externally
- How you will be rewarded
For the Manufacturing Excellence Manager, the salary range is £60,000 - £75,000.
In addition, you will receive a benefits package including; bonus, pension, life cover, £100 annual personal development allowance, chocolate allowance; chocolate give-aways, chocolate discount, birthday day off and so much more!
Being yourself every day
We want everyone at Lindt feel safe to be themselves, ensuring they are empowered, represented, celebrated and included in our workplace.
You'll notice this throughout the recruitment process; in our 'dress for your day' policy and through our proactive DE&I strategy.
Living our values everyday
At Lindt UK, our values guide us in everything we do.
Being Passionately Lindt, Always Evolving, Building Real Relationships, Acting Responsibly and Making An Impact are an integral part of life here at Lindt.
What you can expect from us
In return for everything that you'll bring, we can offer you an exciting role in a fast-growing organisation, where we'll provide an environment where you will thrive, feel supported and fulfil your career aspirations.
As well as supporting your physical and mental wellbeing, as part of our offering, you will receive a competitive compensation and benefits package.
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Manufacturing Excellence Manager employer: Lindt & Sprungli UK
Lindt & Sprungli UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With a competitive salary, bonuses, and the flexibility of a hybrid working model, employees are empowered to achieve a healthy work-life balance while growing their careers in a supportive environment. Located in the picturesque Richmond Upon Thames, the company provides unique opportunities for professional development and engagement in a globally recognised brand.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Excellence Manager
✨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 Lindt & Sprungli UK, 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 Manufacturing Excellence Manager
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 Lindt & Sprungli UK 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 Lindt & Sprungli UK
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Lindt & Sprungli UK, 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 Lindt & Sprungli UK 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.
