Stellar Recruitment AU and NZ – Canterbury NSW
Full time
8d ago , from Stellar Recruitment AU and NZ
Drive Lean manufacturing, process optimisation and continuous improvement initiativesInfluence operational performance across New Zealand manufacturing operationsJoin a market-leading global manufacturer committed to safety, quality and innovation
Continuous Improvement Lead
Drive Lean manufacturing, process optimisation and continuous improvement initiativesInfluence operational performance across New Zealand manufacturing operationsJoin a market-leading global manufacturer committed to safety, quality and innovation
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Continuous Improvement Lead to drive continuous improvement and process engineering initiatives across manufacturing operations in New Zealand.
Reporting to the Operational Excellence Manager in Australia, you will play a key role in identifying productivity improvements, reducing waste, improving quality, optimising manufacturing processes and delivering sustainable cost savings.
This is a highly visible and autonomous position that will see you working closely with production, maintenance, quality and leadership teams to embed Lean manufacturing principles and foster a culture of operational excellence.
Please note this role is hands-on and you will be spending a lot of your time on the factory floor building relationships with the team.
You will lead improvement projects, analyse operational performance, support manufacturing trials and implement data-driven solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability and profitability.
Duties will include:
Leading continuous improvement projects and Lean manufacturing initiatives
Facilitating Kaizen workshops, root cause analysis and structured problem solving activities across two manufacturing sites
Identifying and implementing opportunities to improve productivity, quality and cost performance
Analysing production data, equipment performance and manufacturing processes to drive informed decision-making




Supporting new product introductions, process validation activities and manufacturing trials
Developing and maintaining KPIs, standard operating procedures and process documentation
Collaborating with maintenance, production and technical teams to improve process stability and operational reliability
Investigating quality issues, downtime events and customer complaints and implementing corrective actions
Coaching and training site teams in Lean methodologies and continuous improvement principles
Driving a culture of operational excellence, accountability and continuous improvement across the business
Travelling to other manufacturing sites as required.
Key Skills & Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial or Process Engineering (or similar)
Minimum 5 years' experience in process engineering, operational excellence or continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment
Strong experience implementing Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
Experience within FMCG, packaging, plastics, extrusion, printing, converting or similar manufacturing sectors
Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify opportunities through data analysis
Proven ability to lead change and influence cross-functional stakeholders
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Results-driven with strong project management and organisational abilities
Comfortable working on the manufacturing floor and engaging with frontline teams
A passion for driving sustainable improvements and operational performance.
About the Company
Our client is a global leader in manufacturing and packaging solutions, operating multiple sites across Australia and New Zealand.
Known for their commitment to safety, innovation and operational excellence, they invest heavily in continuous improvement and developing their people.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a cooperative and progressive business where you can make a genuine impact on manufacturing performance and operational outcomes.
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📌 Continuous Improvement Lead (New South Wales)
🏢 Stellar Recruitment AU and NZ
📍 New South Wales