Senior Process Optimisation Manager - Manufacturing (Food Industry)
Reports to: CEO
Sector: Manufacturing | Food Production | Process Engineering
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Process Optimisation Manager to join our leadership team in the food manufacturing industry.
This is a pivotal role designed for a hands-on change leader who thrives on improving production performance, eliminating bottlenecks, and designing scalable manufacturing solutions.
Key Responsibilities
1. Process Evaluation & Improvement
o Identify and document growth barriers and inefficiencies across production lines
o Create and analyse detailed process maps; develop actionable improvement plans
o Recommend capital investments based on growth opportunities and constraints
2. Process Design & Development
o Collaborate with R&D and Engineering teams to design scalable, future-ready manufacturing processes
o Lead expansion projects, including the development of new facilities
3. Capacity Management & Process Optimisation
o Analyse and resolve capacity constraints across all production technologies
o Enhance throughput, reduce waste, and increase production yield
o Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to maximise plant performance and scheduling
4. Continuous Improvement Leadership
o Champion a culture of continuous improvement across teams
o Implement measurable process enhancements that align with company KPIs
5. Project Management
o Lead end-to-end execution of process improvement and expansion projects
o Manage budgets, timelines, and cross-functional project teams
6. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
o Partner with internal stakeholders across operations, engineering, R&D, and leadership
o Effectively communicate process changes and strategic updates at all levels
7. Training & CapEx Leadership
o Support staff training in new systems and technologies
o Lead capital investment projects, demonstrating strong financial discipline
About You
1. You have 3-5+ years of experience in a senior process engineering or manufacturing operations role (food industry preferred)
2. Strong background in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
3. Excellent understanding of compliance in food safety, H&S, and environmental regulations
4. Experience with digital manufacturing, automation, and data-driven decision-making
5. Adept in process mapping, root cause analysis, and project execution
6. Proven ability to influence, lead, and challenge stakeholders constructively
7. Exceptional analytical, communication, and leadership skills
8. Strategic thinker with a proactive, hands-on approach