Continuous Improvement Manager

gategroup; North Hillingdon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline catering company in North Hillingdon is looking for an Operations Improvement Specialist to enhance operational efficiency using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. This hands-on role requires at least 5 years of experience in operations within manufacturing or healthcare environments. Proven abilities in problem-solving and data analysis, along with management experience, are essential. The ideal candidate will work on-site, leading teams to implement effective improvements and provide training, ensuring measurable results.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in operations environments such as manufacturing or healthcare.
• Proven track record using Lean/CI tools.
• Management or supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform root cause analysis and eliminate inefficiencies.
• Implement performance management systems.
• Plan and execute operational improvements.

Skills

Lean methodology

Six Sigma

Problem-solving

Data analysis

Education

GCSE Maths/Science

Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical related field

Tools

ERP systems

Production planning tools

Job description

Fix what's broken. Streamline what's clunky. Roll out best practice across our aviation and rail catering operations. You'll use Lean, Six Sigma, and proper problem-solving tools to drive real improvements in quality, cost, and delivery.

• Conduct problem-solving and root cause analysis using tools such as process mapping, Kaizen, value stream mapping, SMED, Poka-yoke, FMEA, cause & effect analysis, and 5S to eliminate inefficiencies and defects.
• Develop and implements performance management systems that will help to measure and manage operational performance, compliance and quality.
• Partners with facilities operations managers, shift team leaders (in the operation) and compliance colleagues to plan and execute operational and tactical improvements.
• Drives development and rollout of technology tools into the operation.
• Partner with ops managers and shift leaders to identify waste, implement tech solutions, and embed our gateOPEX programme. Mentor teams, run kaizen events, analyse data, and deliver measurable wins.
• This isn't desk bound consultancy, you'll be onsite, getting your hands dirty and making changes stick!

Proven track record using Lean/CI tools in manufacturing, pharma, healthcare, engineering, or automotive.

• 5+ year minimum experience in operations environments of; manufacturing, pharmaceutical, healthcare, electronics/engineering or automotive.
• Management or supervisory experience.
• GCSE Maths/Science.
• Strong grasp of production systems (ERP, supply chain, planning).
• Ability to influence, coach, and get diverse teams pulling in the same direction.

Desirable:

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green or Black Belt).
• Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical related field (advantageous).
• Project management credentials.

We're gategroup-the world's largest airline caterer. We feed millions of passengers annually across 200+ locations. Now we need someone to make us leaner, faster, and better.