Continuous Improvement Lead

Polypipe Building Services; Tonbridge and Malling; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in engineered systems is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to enhance operational efficiency through lean methodologies. The role involves leading Kaizen initiatives, improving processes, and supporting the Senior Leadership Team in achieving business excellence. This position offers a dynamic work environment focused on sustainable change and continuous improvement.

Benefits

25 days holiday entitlement

Save as you earn Sharesave Scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Contributory pension scheme with up to 8% matching

Life assurance linked to pension membership

Free flu vouchers

Health & wellbeing initiatives

Staff discount on all Genuit Group products

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar continuous improvement role.
• Strong knowledge of Lean CI tools and principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the deployment of Kaizen initiatives aligned with the 'Genuit Business System'.
• Identify and implement process improvements through lean methodologies.
• Communicate CI activities, progress, and benefits internally.

Skills

Lean CI tools

Project management

Effective communication

Analytical approach

Organizational skills

Education

Qualifications in CI / Lean methodologies

Technical qualifications in Engineering or Business Management

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Specialists in Engineered Systems and Company Overview

Polypipe Building Services specializes in providing engineered above ground drainage and water supply systems. Leveraging offsite fabrication, the company designs and delivers solutions to mechanical and public health engineers, M&E contractors, and local authorities. It houses well-known industry brands like Terrain and has been delivering systems across commercial, high-rise residential, healthcare, education, and leisure projects for over 50 years.

Position Overview

The role focuses on fostering a culture of sustainable change through continuous improvement by implementing and embedding the 'Genuit Business System' and applying lean methodologies. The aim is to support the company's strategic priorities for growth and sustainability, emphasizing lean-focused activities across transactional and operational processes, and assisting the Senior Leadership Team in achieving business excellence.

Key Responsibilities

1. Deliver customer-centric improvements that add value.
2. Lead the deployment of Kaizen (Continuous Improvement) initiatives aligned with the 'Genuit Business System'.
3. Identify and implement process improvements through lean methodologies, reducing non-value adding activities and waste.
4. Plan, facilitate, and lead Kaizen events and activities.
5. Utilize Process Mapping and Value Stream Mapping to pinpoint inefficiencies and waste.
6. Teach and coach cross-functional teams in CI methodologies, problem-solving techniques, and standardization.
7. Develop a structure for deploying CI training across the organization.
8. Manage CI projects effectively with documented implementation plans.
9. Communicate CI activities, progress, and benefits internally and across the company.
10. Introduce KPIs and metrics to monitor the impact of CI initiatives.
11. Represent Polypipe Building Services at group CI networking events to share best practices.
12. Support structured problem-solving events addressing capacity, efficiency, and productivity issues.

Skills & Requirements

• Experience in a similar continuous improvement role.
• Proven project management and deployment skills.
• Strong knowledge of Lean CI tools and principles such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Visual Management, Root Cause Analysis, A3 Problem Solving, 7 Wastes, SMED, and Daily Management.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft 365, especially Excel.
• Analytical, data-driven, and structured approach.
• Effective communication skills across all levels with an engaging and influencing style.
• Strong organizational and planning abilities.
• Qualifications in CI / Lean methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Industry 4.0).
• Technical qualifications in Engineering or Business Management are desirable.

Working Hours and Benefits

37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday

25 days holiday entitlement

Save as you earn Sharesave Scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Contributory pension scheme with up to 8% matching

Life assurance linked to pension membership

Free flu vouchers

Health & wellbeing initiatives, including onsite physiotherapy and counselling services

Staff discount on all Genuit Group products

Free on-site parking