Continuous Improvement Manager in Andover

Company Overview

Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. With over 13,500 associates working in 100 locations globally and annual sales exceeding $4 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

Location: Andover, GB, SP11 8EZ

Purpose Statement

As the Continuous Improvement Manager and training manager, you’ll be the catalyst behind the rollout of our Total Productive Manufacturing (TPM) strategy across the plant. Your mission is to embed a culture of continuous improvement by championing Autonomous Maintenance and Leadership practices that unlock performance and eliminate losses. Devise the organisational training strategy, oversee its implementation and assess outcomes. Deliver training as appropriate. Assist plant leadership in expanding Total Productive Manufacturing principles and Lean Six Sigma capability tools. Drive continuous TPM site phase progression across all TPM pillars: Autonomous Maintenance, Focused Improvement, Planned Maintenance, Early Innovation Management, People Pillar, and Continuous Improvement. Execute zero‑loss analysis across the plant and network; track results. Utilize Power BI analytics. Interpret TEEP and OEE reports to understand capacity constraints and reduce losses. Develop and demonstrate proficiency in TPM standards and capability building. Monitor adherence to TPM processes and results against targets; respond to shortfalls through training, coaching, and escalation as needed. Train and coach plant associates in TPM systems; activate skill assessments with Plant Steering Teams and Line Trios. Develop TPM standards that eliminate loss. Provide planning, facilitation, and governance for daily, weekly, and 90‑day loss elimination plans. Develop business charters for line expansion across the network. Be a role model with GLDs, Culture, and leading the Rich Experience to both associates and customers. You must comply with Rich Products Health and Safety policies and procedures at all times.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• 3+ years progressive technical experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to set vision, manage change, develop personnel, and plan strategically for continuous improvement.
• Ability to influence leadership in a complex environment.
• Organizational change leadership (ADKAR), project management, and governance skills.
• Coaching, facilitation, and team‑building skills.
• Use of Power BI analytics.
• Ability to navigate RPC information systems and leverage data to identify sources of loss and maintenance cost (e.g., BI, SAP, MLO, SightBase, Wonderware, Yield data).
• Food industry background.
• TPM (JIPM) certification desirable.
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt and Lean Manufacturing experience preferred.

Rich Products Corporation welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Bringing Your Best Self to Work

• Competitive compensation
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Family planning support
• Associate resource groups
• Volunteering & community impact opportunities
• Holiday gatherings and in‑house taste tests (we are a food company after all)!

It’s all part of how we support our family of associates. Because in the company of family, all things are possible.