Continuous Improvement & Process Engineering Manager

About The Opportunity:

Join our vibrant team at Sunshine Melbourne as the Continuous Improvement & Process Engineering Manager! 

Reporting directly to the Hub Manager, you will be a key player in promoting and keeping a culture of continuous improvement in all areas of the site. The focus is on manufacturing and operations. The goal is to improve key performance indicators like Safety, On-Time In-Full (OTIF) delivery, cost, material efficiency, quality, and inventory levels. 

This role will set up and establish a support structure to develop continuous improvement skills and mindset. You will get guidance from the central Integrated Supply Chain (ISC). You will act as an agent for culture change using Lean Six Sigma skills and promotes good problem-solving, decision-making, and standard-setting practices. You will align with local needs and priorities, and support operational performance in quality, cost, delivery, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE), and people development. 

We provide a multi-week training program (CI Expert) and ongoing coaching and support from the central ISC. This training will give you the skills and knowledge to do well in your role.

Key Responsibilities:

Build Organisational Capabilities:

• Promote and keep a culture of continuous improvement. Use methods like Lean, Six Sigma, and ALPS in all areas of the site. Focus on manufacturing and operations. For example, using Lean techniques can reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Develop local skills in using continuous improvement tools and methods. Promote a structured problem-solving approach. Provide a clear vision for the future of the site. This includes training sessions and workshops.
• Use the ALPS capability and improvement program. Include a coaching support structure to drive continuous improvement initiatives. Make sure improvements last. Regular coaching sessions can help.
• Lead the use of change management processes and tools. Help the business meet its strategic goals. Guide teams through changes and make sure they adapt smoothly.
• Provide extra training on selected topics to Advanced & Lead Practitioners and local staff. Make sure everyone is up-to-date with the latest methods.

Improve Site Performance:

• Help and challenge the workforce and local management team. Set directions, prioritize actions, and implement improvement activities. Achieve key performance indicators of the yearly site improvement plan. This includes strategic deployment throughout the site.
• Regularly check the ALPS operating framework. Make sure it meets corporate and business area requirements. Highlight areas of concern to the site management team. Agree on corrective actions.
• Help improve key performance indicators like Safety, On-Time In-Full (OTIF) delivery, cost, material efficiency, quality, and inventory levels. For instance, using safety protocols can reduce workplace incidents.

As well as:

Drive and Manage the Improvement Portfolio

• Find, validate, start, and drive new improvement opportunities. Promote a passion for excellence and commitment to values. This could involve brainstorming sessions and feedback loops.
• Oversee the improvement project funnel. This includes scoping, project assignment, resource planning, tracking progress and benefits, and making sure outcomes last. Effective project management ensures timely and successful project completion.
• Lead your own improvement projects that deliver significant value to the organization. These projects could range from process optimizations to cost-saving initiatives.

Lead and Support ALPS Deployment on Site

• Lead and support the local ALPS implementation. Build the required capabilities to ensure full and successful implementation. Make sure it is used daily. This involves hands-on guidance and support.
• Network within the AkzoNobel CI community. Share insights, problems, and opportunities. Promote improved performance and problem-solving across the company. Encourage others to do the same. Regular meetings and forums can help.

Process Engineering

• Use a continuous improvement mindset. Improve the performance of all products through the manufacturing process. Ensure standardized and optimized methods of manufacture. Aim for ‘Right First Time’ production. This reduces defects and increases efficiency.
• Use the Scale-Up process for product introduction. Ensure the successful handover of products to production. This ensures a smooth transition from development to full-scale manufacturing.

What You Need to Have:

• Tertiary qualification in Science or Engineering (minimum TAFE certificate in production management or equivalent).
• 5+ years of relevant work experience in operations, maintenance, logistics, or process engineering.
• Proven track record in continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Solid project and stakeholder management experience.
• Experience in coaching and developing teams.

What We Offer at AkzoNobel:

• Career Pathway and Training: We’re committed to helping you reach your career goals with training and development opportunities.
• Company Culture: Experience a dynamic and inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration.
• Competitive Salary and Performance Bonuses: Potential to earn more with performance bonuses on top of your base salary.
• Health and Wellbeing: Enjoy a free annual flu vaccination and financial support for health and wellbeing programs.
• Exclusive Discounts: Access to discounts on HP products, private health insurance with Bupa, and special corporate rates for car rentals through Avis.

How to Apply:

If you are a high performer with a passion for driving continuous improvement and ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply! Visit the AkzoNobel careers page or search for this role on SEEK. We look forward to hearing from you!