Operations Improvement Lead – Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

Location: Bristol

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

Type: FTC – 6 Month with Extension Likely - £25ph (£50k PA)

We are seeking an experienced Operations Improvement Lead to join a leading manufacturing business in Bristol.

This is a critical role within Operations, focused on driving cost reduction and process excellence by streamlining production processes, reducing waste, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the organisation.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of Operations, you will:

• Lead and deliver continuous improvement projects using Lean methodologies
• Drive cost reduction initiatives, productivity improvements, and waste elimination
• Develop and implement action plans to improve quality and reduce scrap/rework
• Support visual management, Gemba walks, Kaizen events, and 6S audits
• Provide data analysis on SQCDP metrics, identifying root causes and corrective actions
• Coach and mentor apprentices and teams in Operational Excellence tools and behaviours
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Business Systems, and Finance to deliver step-change performance improvements

About You

• Background in Operations, Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Process Engineering
• Proven ability to deliver measurable improvement projects (cost, quality, delivery)
• Strong knowledge of Lean tools and principles (Green Belt or equivalent desirable)
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills – able to influence at all levels
• Skilled in data analysis, performance reporting, and problem-solving
• Proactive, collaborative, and passionate about driving operational excellence

What’s on Offer

• Key role influencing business operations and strategy
• Career development through training, mentoring, and exposure to strategic projects
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work with a forward-thinking and innovative manufacturing business

If you would like to apply please call MDE on 07441 391 113