Full job descriptionContinous Improvement Manager
This role is about deciding where continuous improvement will make the biggest difference at a manufacturing site, then making it happen. You will own the site’s CI strategy and lead work that improves safety, quality, delivery, productivity and cost. It calls for someone who can turn operational data into priorities and help teams make improvements that last.
Working across an engineering and manufacturing business in Sheffield, you will look beyond individual processes to understand site performance. KPIs, operational data and conversations with teams will help you identify waste, recurring problems and opportunities for measurable improvement. You will then lead Lean initiatives and structured problem solving to address them.
The role combines delivery with influence. You will coach teams in CI methods so they can apply them in their own work, and support automation, capital investment and wider business improvement projects. It is an opportunity to shape how improvement work is prioritised and carried out across the site, while contributing to wider operational performance.
Key Responsibilities
*Develop and deliver the site’s continuous improvement strategy, focusing effort on the operational issues with the greatest scope for improvement.
*Lead Lean initiatives using Kaizen, 5S, value stream mapping, SMED and waste reduction to improve how work is carried out.
*Analyse KPIs and operational data to identify opportunities, set improvement priorities and measure the results of changes made.
*Lead structured problem-solving using root cause analysis, 8D, 5 Why, PDCA or DMAIC to address persistent operational issues.
*Coach teams in continuous improvement methods, helping them understand and apply practical approaches to improving performance.
What We’re Looking For
*Proven experience in continuous improvement, operational excellence or Lean manufacturing, with a strong grasp of the methods used in practice.
*Experience leading improvement projects in a manufacturing, engineering or industrial environment, from identifying an issue through to implementing change.
*Evidence of measurable operational improvements you have delivered, including how you assessed the results.
*Strong analytical, project management and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to turn performance data into practical action.
*A Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt would be desirable but is not essential.
Package
*£60,000
*Bonus circa £9k
If you have led measurable improvements in a manufacturing or engineering setting and want to take ownership of a site-wide CI strategy, apply to discuss the role.
Shillito Group is a specialist recruitment and executive search partner, working with ambitious businesses to secure high-impact talent across commercial and engineering markets. Our reputation is built on deep expertise, trusted relationships and delivering results that go beyond the brief.