CI Manager

Michael Page; Leicester Forest East; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK food manufacturer is looking for a Continuous Improvement Manager. The successful candidate will partner with site leaders, lead transformation projects, and drive a culture of improvement within a collaborative environment. Responsibilities include strategic leadership, operational excellence, project delivery, coaching, and data analysis. Ideal candidates have proven experience in food manufacturing, Lean Six Sigma qualifications, and strong data analysis skills. Opportunities for professional growth and a supportive workplace are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Permanent role

Professional growth opportunities

Training and development programmes

Qualifications

• Proven experience in food manufacturing.
• Strong data analysis and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and coaching abilities.

Responsibilities

• Partner with site leaders to deliver the Manufacturing Excellence road map.
• Lead CI maturity assessments and develop multi-year improvement road maps.
• Scope and lead CI projects using advanced problem-solving.

Skills

Data analysis

Project management

Coaching

Problem-solving

Education

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

CI software tools

Job description

As CI Manager, you’ll be the go-to expert for improvement strategy, tools, and delivery. You’ll work across functions to identify opportunities, lead cross-functional projects, and coach teams to adopt best practices that elevate performance, safety, and quality.

Client Details

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for driving operational excellence? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments where collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything you do?

A leading UK food manufacturer is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to partner with site leaders and operational teams across multiple locations. This is a high-impact role where you’ll lead transformation projects, coach teams, and embed a culture of improvement that delivers measurable results.

Description

Strategic Leadership & Collaboration

• Partner with site leaders to deliver the Manufacturing Excellence road map
• Build strong relationships across departments and functions
• Champion a values‑led culture with people at the heart of every decision

Operational Excellence

• Lead CI maturity assessments and develop multi-year improvement road maps
• Analyse performance data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities
• Drive improvements in labour efficiency, line balancing, and tiered meeting structures

Project Delivery

• Scope and lead CI projects using advanced problem‑solving and process mapping
• Manage stakeholder engagement, resources, and risk to ensure successful outcomes
• Embed sustainable change through structured coaching and control systems

Coaching & Capability Building

• Train and mentor teams in CI tools and techniques
• Use recognised coaching models to support behavioural change and ownership
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and development

Data & Analysis

• Apply statistical models and root cause analysis to drive data‑led decisions
• Build dashboards and reporting tools to track performance and impact

People Management

• Lead and develop high-performing teams
• Support wellbeing, engagement, and succession planning
• Address ER issues and performance challenges with fairness and clarity

Profile

• Proven experience in food manufacturing
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent
• Strong data analysis and project management skills
• Excellent communication and coaching abilities
• Functional skills in Maths and English
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CI software tools

Job Offer

• A competitive salary range, dependent on experience
• A permanent role with opportunities for professional growth
• A collaborative and supportive working environment
• Comprehensive training and development programmes
• The chance to lead impactful projects and make a meaningful difference