Continuous Improvement Lead

SDUK\’s brands include the nation\’s favourite cheese brand Cathedral City, along with other well-known butter & spreads (Clover, Country Life, Vitalite, Utterly Butterly), functional ingredients, and dairy-free products. This position has been created to champion continuous improvement and lean manufacturing by developing a sustainable manufacturing improvement approach that can be adopted across the site. The site is accustomed to change, with a focus on short to medium-term operational improvements within a defined structure, supporting operational development and driving improvements across all KPIs. As the Continuous Improvement Lead, you\’ll establish processes and structures for the Manufacturing Performance System (MPS), support its implementation, and engage stakeholders at all levels. You will develop and facilitate the implementation of standards, applying best practices pragmatically within SDUK. Your role involves driving performance improvements across the site, delivering tangible benefits through increased OEE, improved quality, and waste reduction. Key Contributions Implementing a robust performance measurement system to deliver cost reductions Monitoring progress of continuous improvement projects Creating a framework for operational improvements Supporting frameworks for New Product Development (NPD) and Engineering Product Development (EPD) Ensuring customer benefits through cost reduction, service improvement, and quality reliability Identifying capital investment opportunities and collaborating on business cases Ideal Candidate Profile Management or supervisory experience within a manufacturing environment, with a proven track record in operational improvement projects Lean expertise with formal qualifications (e.g., Black Belt, Six Sigma) Experience implementing lean techniques and team development across production areas Leadership skills with the ability to influence behaviors and drive change Technical expertise with coaching and mentoring capabilities in lean manufacturing Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels Analytical skills to interpret complex data, including financial, process, and product information Flexibility to collaborate across multiple sites and share best practices Employee Benefits Quarterly bonus scheme Autonomous, inclusive working environment Opportunities for progression within the UK and internationally Enhanced pension contributions with Scottish Widows Health cash plan for healthcare expenses Access to Thrive, a clinically approved wellbeing app Recognition of long service every 5 years Life assurance up to 4x salary Discounted products and onsite parking Subsidised staff restaurant 25 holidays plus 8 bank holidays Exclusive benefits through My Staff Shop For more information on benefits, visit uk.saputo.com/en/careers/employee-benefits. We promote diversity and inclusion and are committed to supporting all candidates through necessary adjustments during the application process. Agencies: Thank you for your interest. We work with a PSL and do not accept unsolicited CVs unless coordinated through our Talent Acquisition Team. #J-18808-Ljbffr