Process Improvement Manager

W Talent; Barrow-upon-Humber; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company seeks a Process Improvement Manager to drive continuous improvement initiatives across its operations. The ideal candidate will be adept in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, with proven project management skills. This is an exciting opportunity to join a family-oriented culture while making a significant impact on business efficiency.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunities for further development

Supportive company culture

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success leading Lean / Six Sigma projects.
• Strong project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of continuous improvement initiatives.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions.
• Track and report progress of improvement projects.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Root Cause Analysis

Education

NEBOSH/IOSH qualification

Job description

Do you want to join a manufacturing business that has been awarded the Sunday Times best places to work 2025?

Are you a Process Improvement Specialist? Please read on..........

W Talent Manufacturing are delighted to be retained on a search for Process Improvement Manager for Arbor Forest Products Ltd. Arbor are the UK's largest independent timber importer and processer and have invested heavily across its large facility based in Barrow-upon-Humber. Arbor Forest Products founded in 1951 still hold a strong family culture whilst embracing the future of manufacturing. Arbor Forest Products follow 4 key pillars in their culture - Ambition, Family, Cares and Quality.

Arbor Forest Products are committed to innovation through its full supply chain and strive to be leaders of their industry whilst ensuring sustainable and ethical practices in all aspects of their operations. This is a great business to work for and a fantastic opportunity for a Head of Manufacturing (sawmill and treatment) to join a business that truly cares.

Role Overview

W Talent Manufacturing are in partnership with Arbor Forest to support them on a Brand New role for the organisation, we are seeking a dynamic Process Improvement Manager to lead and embed continuous improvement across all areas of our operations. This newly created role will be responsible for identifying, managing, and delivering business improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. The successful candidate will be an effective communicator, capable of engaging with all levels of the organisation, from shop floor to senior leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and sustainability of continuous improvement initiatives across the site.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and other best-practice methodologies to eliminate waste, reduce variation, and improve process capability.
• Identify and prioritise improvement opportunities in collaboration with department heads and cross-functional teams.
• Facilitate workshops (e.g., Kaizen, value stream mapping) and training sessions to build internal CI capability.
• Support compliance with industry standards and internal governance through process documentation and audit readiness.
• Manage and deliver projects from concept through to execution and handover.
• Track and report progress of improvement projects, delivering measurable benefits in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Be a visible change agent, coaching and supporting team members through change.
• Develop standard work practices and ensure alignment with operational excellence goals.
• Contribute to the strategic improvement roadmap, aligned to the business' wider operational and cultural transformation journey.

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment - Exposure to or experience in world-class manufacturing environments would be highly advantageous
• Demonstrated success leading Lean / Six Sigma projects (Green Belt expectation)
• Strong project management skills - able to prioritise, manage multiple initiatives, and see tasks through to completion (starter-finisher).
• Experience engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels, from operators to directors.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to translate data into actionable insight.
• Proficient in root cause analysis, problem-solving tools, and performance management techniques.
• Working knowledge of compliance and audit processes within manufacturing.
• Self-motivated with a proactive approach to identifying and solving problems
• NEBOSH/IOSH qualification or strong understanding of H&S in a manufacturing facility

What's on Offer

• A unique opportunity to shape and lead a new function within a forward-thinking business.
• Supportive and collaborative culture with a strong focus on sustainability and growth.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for further development and career progression.

*all third party applications will be forwarded to W Talent for review