Area Specialist - Taw Valley

Arla Foods; Devon and Torbay; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Arla Foods is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist at the Taw Valley Creamery in Devon. The role involves enhancing process improvements, managing operational standards, and driving Continuous Improvement initiatives, making it an impactful time to join a leading dairy player.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of food manufacturing.
• Knowledge of Lean Principles; Six Sigma qualification preferred.
• Experience in FMCG or dairy industry advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead weekly CI meetings for downtime and speed loss.
• Analyze and track asset performance data.
• Conduct Kaizen and Lean workshops to optimize processes.

Skills

Lean Principles

Data Analysis

Problem Solving

Education

Six Sigma Qualification

Tools

SQL

Job description

Location

Devon, GB

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist at our Taw Valley Creamery in Devon, which processes 1.1 million litres of milk daily, producing around 125 tons of Cheddar Cheese per day. The site has recently received approximately £200 million investment for a state-of-the-art Mozzarella plant, making it an exciting time to join the team.

Day to day, you will identify continuous improvement activities in your area for process improvements, waste removal, and cost reductions.

How will you make an impact?

1. Lead weekly CI meetings for planned downtime and speed loss using data analysis, structured problem solving, and improvement tools.
2. Analyze and track asset performance data, including data quality and completeness (e.g., MDE, SAP, OEE).
3. Create plans to improve OEE for production lines.
4. Ensure that improvement activities in the LCO areas are quantified and reflected in OneCI.
5. Manage operational standards and develop the competence of the Line Team.
6. Define, confirm, and improve operational standards, including OAC.
7. Train and coach the Line Team to perform according to operational standards and ensure proper use of IT systems.
8. Regularly conduct Kaizen and Lean workshops to optimize processes.
9. Support the implementation of new digital tools, products, and ways of working, ensuring effective onboarding of Line Teams.
10. Drive Continuous Improvement initiatives in collaboration with the Line Team.
11. Actively use data and deploy lean and APS tools in a structured way as a role model.

What You Will Need To Succeed

The ideal candidate will have:

• A basic understanding of food manufacturing.
• Knowledge of Lean Principles; Six Sigma qualification is preferred.
• Previous experience within an FMCG or dairy industry is advantageous but not essential, as training will be provided.
• Database experience, including working with SQL code, is preferred but not essential, as training will be provided.

Want to apply?

Please apply using the link or contact Jess Thwaite, Talent Partner at Arla Foods. The closing date for applications is 20th June 2025.

Shape the Future of Dairy

Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to producing high-quality products while championing sustainability and innovation. We are passionate about people and our planet, striving to unlock the full potential in each of us. Our goal is to make healthy dairy nutrition and good food habits accessible to all. Join us at Arla Foods and become part of a worldwide cooperative dedicated to making a significant impact on the planet and guiding the dairy industry towards a sustainable future.

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Diversity and collaboration are key to our success, propelling us to new heights in the dairy industry.