Continuous Improvement Specialist | RCL Foods

Job Description    

• RCL FOODS is seeking to employ a Continuous Improvement Specialist for the Baking Division. The role is based in Centurion and will report into the Factory Manager.
• The Continuous Improvement Specialist plays a pivotal role in driving our operational strategy and objectives. You will lead the implementation of short/medium-term strategic projects, analyse complex operations, workflows, and production processes to enhance efficiency, and ensure our products meet the highest quality standards. This role involves designing and overseeing systems that maximize productivity, reduce waste, and encourage cost-effectiveness through innovative cost-saving initiatives.

Minimum Requirements    

• B-Tech or Degree in Industrial Engineering or Chemical Engineering
• 5 years of industry experience within Food or FMCG environments.
• Proven experience with Lean and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional critical and curious thinking abilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Keen attention to detail.
• Deep insight into manufacturing and operations.
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly strong Excel skills.
• Strong coaching and mentoring skills within Operations.

Duties & Responsibilities    
Strategic Leadership:

• Lead the business in driving operational strategy and objectives.
• Define and implement new operational strategies, working closely with the Operational team on special projects.

Advanced Analysis and Design:

• Conduct in-depth capacity planning and performance analysis.
• Analyse complex operations, workflows, and production processes to identify inefficiencies.
• Design and implement reporting tools/ systems at operator level
• Design control systems aimed at minimizing costs and production issues.

Project Management and Implementation:

Manage new product development plans to ensure seamless integration into plant setups.

• Develop and implement comprehensive process improvements and technological upgrades.
• Ensure successful and sustainable project implementation through frequent process audits and reviews.
• Conduct post-implementation reviews to ensure successful delivery and identify improvements for future projects.

Training and Development:

• Provide advanced training and coaching to staff on new processes, fostering a Lean culture.
• Work closely with shopfloor to identify training needs as well as conduct training related to loss analysis, loss reporting
• Act as a catalyst for culture change towards high-performance excellence.

Continuous Improvement:

• Develop tools to measure efficiencies, identify trends, and detect process variations as part of a continuous improvement system.
•  Advise on and initiate corrective actions to address key business metrics at risk of deviation.
• Drive problem solving opportunities
• Identify and motivate for new investment opportunities (CAPEX) for future growth.

Relationship Building:

• Build and develop relationships with internal and external customers to address and exceed customer expectations.
• Deliver coaching on new developments, processes, and ways of working.