Continuous Improvement Manager

IG Design Group UK; Hengoed; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design and manufacturing company in the UK is looking for a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead operational excellence initiatives. The role involves driving Lean and Six Sigma projects, coaching staff, and analyzing key performance indicators. Candidates should have over 5 years of experience in a manufacturing setting and a successful track record in process improvement. The company offers a flexible, hybrid work environment and enhances employee well-being through various benefits.

Benefits

Flexible hours

Hybrid working

Enhanced holidays

Holiday purchase scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• At least 3 years leading continuous improvement or operational excellence initiatives.
• Proven track record of successful Lean/Six Sigma project implementation.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean and Six Sigma projects to improve performance.
• Drive automation and digitalization initiatives.
• Develop and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Coach and train employees in Lean principles.
• Analyse KPIs to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and value stream mapping.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Analytical skills

Project management

Data analysis tools

Leadership

Education

Qualification in engineering or Manufacturing

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Description

Location: Penallta, South Wales

Company: Design Group UK

This is a very exciting opportunity to join one of the industry market leaders. Globally, Design Group designs, manufactures, and sources celebrations, creative, home and office, and away from home products for leading retailers in the UK and beyond. Globally, Design Group reaches consumers in 79 countries, has over 2700 employees, works with 11000 retailers and sells 1.3bn products annually.

Many of the UK’s largest retailers trust Design Group to deliver on-trend products that consumers love, all year round. Offering both bespoke and branded product ranges, we’re proud to support retailers big and small, reaching into the lives of millions of consumers each year.

Scope of the Role

We have a fantastic opportunity for an individual to join our Manufacturing department in Penallta. You will be responsible for driving a culture of operational excellence and process improvement across the manufacturing facility. This role leads the identification, analysis, and execution of initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, improve quality, and optimise overall performance. The CI Manager will be responsible for partnering with cross-functional teams to implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to achieve measurable results aligned with business goals.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate Lean and Six Sigma projects to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Drive automation and digitalization initiatives that enhance visibility and efficiency in production processes.
• Develop and implement continuous improvement strategies, policies, and procedures aligned with business objectives.
• Coach and train employees at all levels in Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, and waste elimination.
• Analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with department managers to develop action plans that address process inefficiencies and performance gaps.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping sessions, and root cause analysis activities.
• Standardise best practices across production lines and support documentation of new processes.
• Monitor and report progress of CI initiatives, ensuring sustainability of improvements and benefits.
• Support capital projects and new product introductions with process optimisation and workflow design.
• Champion a culture of employee engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Effective communicator with the ability to influence and lead cross-functional teams.
• Proficient in data analysis tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong leadership and coaching abilities, coupled with strong influencing skills to foster engagement at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to sustain continuous improvement initiatives and deliver quantifiable results.

Education & Experience

Qualification in engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management is preferred but not essential.

Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 3 years leading continuous improvement or operational excellence initiatives.

Proven track record of successful Lean/Six Sigma project implementation (Black Belt qualification preferred).

If you would like any support with your application, please contact [e-mail]

Equality and Diversity

At Design Group UK, we are one team, creating a workplace that is open and honest, where everyone feels respected, valued, heard, and contributes to our success. We employ capable people with the attitude and aptitude to succeed and deliver, within an enabling environment.

We’re an inclusive employer and we welcome applications from everyone!

We are guided by our values – Pace, Passion, People, and Planet. We are committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to create an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds.

In return, we offer a range of employee benefits, including flexible hours, hybrid working, enhanced holidays and holiday purchase scheme.

How to Apply

Applications should be sent to: Sarah Ashdown, HR Manager: [e-mail]