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- Tasks: Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Company: Join Arbor Forest Products, the UK's largest independent timber importer with a family-oriented culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, career progression, and a supportive, sustainable work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation and ethical practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing and leading Lean/Six Sigma projects is essential.
- Other info: This is a brand new role, perfect for those looking to make a significant impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you want to join a manufacturing business that has been awarded the Sunday Times best places to work 2025? Are you a Process Improvement Specialist? Please read on.
W Talent Manufacturing are delighted to be retained on a search for Process Improvement Manager for Arbor Forest Products Ltd. Arbor are the UK's largest independent timber importer and processor and have invested heavily across its large facility based in Barrow-upon-Humber. Arbor Forest Products, founded in 1951, still hold a strong family culture whilst embracing the future of manufacturing. Arbor Forest Products follow 4 key pillars in their culture - Ambition, Family, Cares and Quality. Arbor Forest Products are committed to innovation through its full supply chain and strive to be leaders of their industry whilst ensuring sustainable and ethical practices in all aspects of their operations. This is a great business to work for and a fantastic opportunity for a Head of Manufacturing (sawmill and treatment) to join a business that truly cares.
Role Overview
W Talent Manufacturing are in partnership with Arbor Forest to support them on a Brand New role for the organisation, we are seeking a dynamic Process Improvement Manager to lead and embed continuous improvement across all areas of our operations. This newly created role will be responsible for identifying, managing, and delivering business improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. The successful candidate will be an effective communicator, capable of engaging with all levels of the organisation, from shop floor to senior leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, implementation, and sustainability of continuous improvement initiatives across the site.
- Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and other best-practice methodologies to eliminate waste, reduce variation, and improve process capability.
- Identify and prioritise improvement opportunities in collaboration with department heads and cross-functional teams.
- Facilitate workshops (e.g., Kaizen, value stream mapping) and training sessions to build internal CI capability.
- Support compliance with industry standards and internal governance through process documentation and audit readiness.
- Manage and deliver projects from concept through to execution and handover.
- Track and report progress of improvement projects, delivering measurable benefits in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
- Be a visible change agent, coaching and supporting team members through change.
- Develop standard work practices and ensure alignment with operational excellence goals.
- Contribute to the strategic improvement roadmap, aligned to the business' wider operational and cultural transformation journey.
Candidate Requirements
- Proven experience in a manufacturing environment - Exposure to or experience in world-class manufacturing environments would be highly advantageous.
- Demonstrated success leading Lean / Six Sigma projects (Green Belt expectation).
- Strong project management skills - able to prioritise, manage multiple initiatives, and see tasks through to completion (starter-finisher).
- Experience engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels, from operators to directors.
- Strong analytical skills and ability to translate data into actionable insight.
- Proficient in root cause analysis, problem-solving tools, and performance management techniques.
- Working knowledge of compliance and audit processes within manufacturing.
- Self-motivated with a proactive approach to identifying and solving problems.
- NEBOSH/IOSH qualification or strong understanding of H&S in a manufacturing facility.
What's on Offer
- A unique opportunity to shape and lead a new function within a forward-thinking business.
- Supportive and collaborative culture with a strong focus on sustainability and growth.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for further development and career progression.
Process Improvement Manager employer: W Talent
Contact Detail:
W Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Improvement Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as these are crucial for the Process Improvement Manager role. Consider taking a short course or certification if you haven't already, to demonstrate your commitment and expertise in these areas.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the manufacturing sector, especially those who have experience with continuous improvement initiatives. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture at Arbor Forest Products.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led process improvement projects in the past. Be ready to explain the methodologies you used, the challenges you faced, and the measurable outcomes of your initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Arbor Forest Products' values and recent initiatives related to sustainability and innovation. Tailor your conversations during interviews to reflect how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around their key pillars of Ambition, Family, Cares, and Quality.
We think you need these skills to ace Process Improvement Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Company Culture: Before applying, take some time to understand Arbor Forest Products' culture and values. Highlight how your personal values align with their key pillars: Ambition, Family, Cares, and Quality in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Include specific examples of projects you've led that demonstrate your ability to improve processes and engage stakeholders at all levels.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss your proven experience in manufacturing environments and how you can contribute to their continuous improvement initiatives.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since the role requires effective communication across various levels, provide examples in your application of how you've successfully engaged and influenced stakeholders in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at W Talent
✨Understand Lean and Six Sigma
Make sure you have a solid grasp of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as these are crucial for the role. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully applied these principles to drive process improvements.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an effective communicator, you'll need to engage with various levels of the organisation. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex ideas to both shop floor staff and senior leadership in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Expertise
Highlight your project management skills by discussing past initiatives you've led. Focus on how you prioritised tasks, managed multiple projects, and ensured successful completion from start to finish.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to be a change agent. Think of instances where you've coached team members through change or facilitated workshops, and be ready to share these experiences during the interview.
