At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead continuous improvement initiatives and drive operational excellence across UK manufacturing sites.
- Company: Join Puratos, a family-owned company creating beloved bakery and chocolate products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, generous leave, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth and learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the future of manufacturing and developing people.
- Qualifications: Experience in continuous improvement and strong coaching skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Location: Buckingham based with occasional travel across UK sites
Salary: Up to 70,000 + Car Allowance
Join the Magic
At Puratos, we don't just manufacture ingredients; we help create bakery, patisserie and chocolate products enjoyed around the world every day. Our Buckingham site manufactures high-quality food ingredients and solutions that help our customers create products consumers know and love. As we continue our journey of Operational Excellence, we're looking for a passionate and driven Continuous Improvement Manager to help shape the future of our manufacturing operations across the UK cluster.
Reporting to the Operations Director, you'll lead the implementation of Puratos' Global Operational Excellence programme, partnering with leaders across Buckingham, Fringford and Fourayes to drive measurable improvements in Health & Safety, Quality, People, Service and Cost. This is a highly visible role that combines continuous improvement, change management, capability building and operational leadership. You'll influence at all levels of the business, helping teams identify opportunities, eliminate waste, improve performance and embed sustainable ways of working. If you are energised by solving problems, developing people and leading meaningful change, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
What You'll Be Doing
- Lead Our Operational Excellence Journey
- Lead the implementation of Puratos' Operational Excellence programme across the UK cluster.
- Partner with site leadership teams to create and deliver improvement roadmaps aligned to business priorities.
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency and deliver sustainable operational improvements.
- Track progress, measure outcomes and ensure improvement initiatives deliver lasting results.
- Build Capability Across the Business
- Develop Continuous Improvement knowledge and capability throughout the organisation.
- Coach managers and leaders in problem solving, Lean methodologies and operational excellence tools.
- Deliver training and mentoring that supports long-term capability growth.
- Create a culture where continuous improvement becomes part of everyday working practices.
- Drive Lean and Continuous Improvement
- Facilitate improvement projects using methodologies such as Kaizen, DMAIC and structured problem-solving techniques.
- Support value stream mapping, loss and waste analysis and performance improvement projects.
- Use data and insight to identify priorities and focus resources where they will have the greatest impact.
- Share best practice across sites and support cross-functional collaboration.
- Strengthen Our Management Systems
- Support the development and implementation of site-wide Management Operating Systems (MOS).
- Help leaders establish effective routines, key performance indicators and standard ways of working.
- Coach managers through Gemba activities and Leader Standard Work practices.
- Ensure improvements are sustained through effective governance, review processes and change management.
What We're Looking For
- Significant experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence or Lean Manufacturing.
- Experience leading change programmes within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong coaching, facilitation and influencing skills.
- Practical experience of Lean, Kaizen, DMAIC and structured problem-solving methodologies.
- Excellent analytical capability with the ability to translate data into practical actions.
- Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to engage people at all levels.
- Degree qualified in Engineering, Science or a related discipline is desirable.
What you can expect from Puratos
- Competitive Salary – Reviewed annually to ensure we stay ahead of the market.
- Annual Bonus Scheme – 5% standard, with stretch potential up to 10%.
- Generous Pension Plan – Up to 7.5% employer contributions to support your future.
- Private Medical Insurance – BUPA single cover fully paid, with options to add family members.
- Up to 5 Weeks Annual Leave – Plus the flexibility to buy or sell additional days.
- Enhanced Company Sick Pay – Because your health matters.
- Learning & Development – Structured programs with a target of 5 learning days per year.
- Wellbeing Matters – Access to our ‘Calling for Caring’ wellbeing initiatives.
- Life Assurance – 2x your salary plus a 20% spouse pension.
- Income Protection – Financial support when you need it most.
- Loyal Service Awards – Celebrating your milestones with us.
- Employee Assistance Program – Confidential support for life’s challenges.
- Refer a Friend Scheme – Earn 500 for successful referrals.
- High Street Discounts – Save with Perkbox perks.
- Monthly ‘Magic Star’ Awards – Win 50 in vouchers for going above and beyond.
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay healthy.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re excited about helping others grow and want to be part of something magical, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help us shape the future at Puratos.
Continuous Improvement Manager in Buckingham employer: Puratos
Puratos is an exceptional employer that prioritises quality and excellence in its work culture, fostering a collaborative environment where team members are inspired to achieve their best. With a strong focus on employee growth and continuous improvement, you will have the opportunity to lead a new production squad while benefiting from comprehensive onboarding and development programmes. Located in a dynamic setting, Puratos offers a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in the food industry while ensuring safety and high-quality standards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement Manager in Buckingham
✨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 Puratos, 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 Continuous Improvement Manager in Buckingham
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 Puratos 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 Puratos
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Puratos, 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 Puratos 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.
