Continuous Improvement Specialist

JR United Kingdom; North Tawton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading dairy company located in North Tawton is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist. This role involves leading CI initiatives and process improvements within the creamery. Candidates should have knowledge of Lean Principles, with a basic understanding of food manufacturing preferred. Join us to contribute to sustainability and innovation in the dairy industry.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of food manufacturing.
• Knowledge of Lean Principles; Six Sigma qualification is preferred.
• Experience in FMCG or dairy industry is advantageous.
• Database experience, including working with SQL code, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead weekly CI meetings on planned downtime and speed loss.
• Analyze asset performance data and ensure data quality.
• Develop plans to improve OEE for production lines.
• Train Line Teams to meet operational standards.

Skills

Understanding of food manufacturing

Knowledge of Lean Principles

Six Sigma qualification

Database experience (SQL)

Tools

MDE

SAP

OEE

Job description

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Continuous Improvement Specialist, North Tawton

Client:

Arla Foods Plc

Location:

North Tawton, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

3

Posted:

04.08.2025

Expiry Date:

18.09.2025

Job Description:

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 the nation's favourite Cheddar Cheese each day. The site has recently received approximately £200 million in investment for a state-of-the-art Mozzarella plant, making this an exciting time to join the team. Your role will involve identifying continuous improvement activities focused on process enhancements, waste reduction, and cost savings.

How will you make an impact?

• Lead weekly CI meetings on planned downtime and speed loss, utilizing data analysis, structured problem solving, and improvement tools.
• Analyze and track asset performance data, including data quality and completeness from systems like MDE, SAP, and OEE.
• Develop plans to improve OEE for production lines.
• Ensure improvement activities in the LCO Areas are quantified and reflected in OneCI.
• Maintain operational standards and support competence development within the Line Team.
• Define, verify, and improve operational standards, including OAC.
• Train and coach Line Teams to meet operational standards and ensure proper use of IT systems.
• Optimize processes through Kaizen Lean workshops, analyses, and process verifications.
• Support the implementation of new digital tools and ways of working, ensuring effective onboarding of Line Teams.
• Drive Continuous Improvement initiatives collaboratively with the Line Team.
• Model best practices by actively using data and deploying lean and APS tools in a structured manner.

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.
• Experience in 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 provided link or contact Jess Thwaite, Talent Partner at Arla Foods. The application deadline is 25th August.

Shape the Future of Dairy

Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to high-quality products, sustainability, and innovation. We value diversity and collaboration, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Join us to make a significant impact on the planet and lead the dairy industry towards a sustainable future.

We strive to foster an inclusive environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work, driving our success and innovation.