At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams to drive continuous improvement and implement innovative solutions.
- Company: Join Safran, a global leader in aerospace and defence, committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, diverse work culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants.
- Why this job: Be a change agent and make a real impact in a high-tech environment.
- Qualifications: Black Belt qualification and experience in continuous improvement methodologies required.
Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment and interiors), space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's "World's Best Companies 2025" ranking. With more than one million seats installed across the fleets of the world's leading airlines, Safran Seats is one of the global leaders in passenger, crew, aircraft and helicopter seating, delivering innovative, high value-added solutions.
If you join our team as Continuous Improvement Lead, you will be responsible for leading and coaching the organisation in driving an effective improvement journey. You will actively lead teams and engage business leaders to analyse performance, determine processes and tools, and drive the projects and governance to implement tangible improvements. You will become a change agent with the courage to champion improvement within the business with the ability to motivate others to achieve results.
Key responsibilities:
- Continuous Improvement (CI): Lead project teams to deliver business improvements through the deployment of tools. Work with business leaders to undertake continual analysis of our operations, to expose opportunities for change & improvement. Drive continuous improvement within the business and identify opportunities for improvement including deployment of Balanced scorecard, One Safran, Customer Improvement projects, Lean Journey & QRQC. Analyse and monitor financial and customer benefits throughout the life of improvement projects.
- Problem Solving Capability: Work with the Director of CI to determine the tools required & scope of CI Training across the business. Create, organise and deliver training to the targeted scope. Coach Project Sponsors and Leaders to enable the delivery of successful project implementation.
- Drive Plant / Business Unit Improvement Workstreams: Lead teams in analysing data and determining the key activities that will reduce defects or increase flow. Use Value-Stream Mapping to determine production bottlenecks and lead the team to address the issues found. Communicate the progress to both internal and external customers and influence the leadership team to ensure support to drive workstreams to closure. Accountable for governance of improvement projects and activities.
As Continuous Improvement Lead, you will bring a wide range of knowledge and experience of problem solving, including:
- Six-sigma methodologies
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools
- A Black Belt qualification is essential with proven leadership in driving improvement projects across a business
- Able to act as a change agent with the courage to champion improvement within the business with the ability to motivate others to achieve results.
- Demonstrable CI project delivery experience within a production/manufacturing environment.
At Safran, we understand that diversity and inclusion make teams stronger and more effective, and as an organisation, we are committed to fair and equitable employment practices for everyone. We also know that some candidates may be put off applying for jobs where they don't meet 100% of the criteria outlined in the advert; however, we encourage anybody to apply if you can demonstrate a variety of skills and experience relevant to the requirements of this role. Please let us know if you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments to the application or hiring process that may better facilitate your participation.
Continuous Improvement, Specilaist employer: Safran UK
At Safran, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters diversity, innovation, and collaboration. As a Production Planning Apprentice in our Fareham facility, you will not only gain invaluable hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment but also benefit from a comprehensive apprenticeship programme that supports your professional growth. With opportunities to engage in various employee forums and initiatives, you will be part of a community that values your contributions and encourages a sustainable future for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement, Specilaist
✨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 Safran 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 Continuous Improvement, Specilaist
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 Safran 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 Safran UK
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Safran 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 Safran 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.
