Continuous Improvement Specialist

Alpla Group; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing company in Gauteng seeks a Continuous Improvement Specialist to lead operational excellence initiatives. The role involves supporting the implementation of controlling tools, developing training materials, and collaborating with plant teams to enhance value-added processes. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's or Master's degree and at least 8 years of experience in an international manufacturing environment, preferably in plastic packaging. Salary is market-related with additional benefits.

Benefits

Market-Related Salary

Professional working environment with Global Exposure

Pension Benefit

Medical Aid

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience in an international manufacturing environment, ideally in plastic packaging.

Responsibilities

• Support the implementation and sustainability of a performance-based controlling system.
• Drive operational excellence through system introduction and training.
• Lead local operational excellence projects based on key figure analysis.

Skills

Strong process and project management

Analytical skills

Excellent communication skills in English

Proficient in MS Office

Problem-solving skills

Ability to work independently

Passion for continuous improvement

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree with a strong operations orientation

Job description

What You Will Enjoy Doing

The Continuous Improvement Specialist is responsible for supporting the implementation and sustainability of a performance-based controlling system in the plant.

The role drives operational excellence through system introduction, training, performance analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The incumbent acts as a key enabler in enhancing value-added processes, ensuring data-driven decision-making, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Roll out and support the "Controlling Tools for Operations" system in the plant with a focus on value-added processes.
• Develop and deliver training material and workshops related to system usage and performance improvement methods.
• Identify and help evolve best practices and controlling methods that align with strategic operational goals.
• Define and lead local operational excellence projects based on key figure analysis, in collaboration with plant teams (using lean manufacturing tools i.e. 5S / Problem solving / Standard Work).
• Facilitate and support daily management systems, including monitoring and driving daily improvement activities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with shop floor employees and management to promote continuous improvement and share successful practices.
• Propose cost-saving initiatives and calculate expected savings.
• Ensure smooth implementation, follow-up, and sustainability of systems through ongoing support and training.

Qualification And Experience Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree with a strong operations orientation.

Minimum 8 years of experience in an international manufacturing environment, ideally in plastic packaging.

Skills And Attributes Required

• Strong process and project management with analytical skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Proven training and facilitation skills.
• Excellent communication skills in English; additional language(s) advantageous.
• Proficient in MS Office (advanced level).
• Methodical thinking and problem-solving.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Passion for continuous improvement.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• To be able to work with shop floor as well as management team.
• To have hands-on approach as well as strategic thinking mindset.
• Results-driven and proactive approach.

What you can expect working with us

• Market-Related Salary
• Professional working environment with Global Exposure
• Pension Benefit
• Medical Aid

Employee Assistance Program

We facilitate a smooth start through individual and accurate training and professional guidance and support.

We offer you a challenging task with a high degree of personal responsibility.

Your individual performance will be remunerated, and your development will be supported by us.