Continual Improvement (CI) Lead

Job Description Role: Continuous Improvement Lead Location: Sapele, Delta State Industry: FMCG / Manufacturing Employment Type: Full-Time Our client, a leading FMCG manufacturing company based in Sapele, Delta State, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Continuous Improvement (CI) Lead to lead operational excellence initiatives across the organization. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and executing Continuous Improvement strategies that enhance productivity, reduce waste, optimize processes, and drive a culture of operational excellence across production, maintenance, logistics, and support functions. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, deep knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies, and a proven track record of delivering measurable business improvements. Key Responsibilities Continuous Improvement Strategy & Leadership Develop and implement the organization's Continuous Improvement (CI) strategy aligned with business objectives. Drive a strong culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across all departments. Serve as the focal point for CI initiatives and transformation programs. Coach and mentor line managers, supervisors, and teams on CI principles, methodologies, and best practices. Champion change management initiatives to improve organizational performance and employee engagement. Process Improvement & Optimization Identify and eliminate operational waste, inefficiencies, and process losses across manufacturing operations. Conduct regular Gemba walks to identify improvement opportunities and implement corrective actions. Facilitate process mapping, value stream mapping, and process redesign initiatives across key operations including intake, milling, packing, and dispatch. Lead root cause analysis using structured problem-solving tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa), and Pareto Analysis. Ensure the implementation, standardization, and sustainability of process improvements. Data Analysis & Performance Management Track, analyze, and report key operational KPIs including: Downtime and equipment effectiveness Yield losses Output efficiency Waste reduction Productivity metrics Develop and maintain CI dashboards and performance reports. Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to support management decision-making. Monitor the impact, sustainability, and benefits realization of improvement initiatives. CI Tools & Methodologies Deployment Lead the deployment and sustainment of Continuous Improvement tools and methodologies, including: Lean Manufacturing Principles Kaizen 5S and Workplace Organization Standard Work SOP Optimization Conduct and supervise regular 5S audits and ensure measurable outcomes. Standardize improved processes and ensure compliance across operations. Training & Capability Building Design and deliver Continuous Improvement training programs for employees at all levels. Build internal CI capabilities and develop CI champions within departments. Drive employee engagement and participation in improvement initiatives. Promote idea generation through suggestion schemes, Kaizen boards, and improvement programs. Project Management & Governance Lead CI projects end-to-end, ensuring timely delivery and measurable business results. Track initiatives, benefits realization, and return on investment (ROI) of CI projects. Coordinate CI meetings, workshops, and Obeya sessions. Ensure CI initiatives are aligned with organizational goals and strategic priorities. Prepare and present progress reports and project outcomes to senior management. Requirements Educational Qualification Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Natural Sciences, Milling Technology, or a related discipline. Experience Minimum of 3 years' experience in manufacturing, operations, or continuous improvement roles within an FMCG or industrial environment or continous improvement consulting firms. Proven experience leading Continuous Improvement or Lean transformation initiatives. Demonstrated success in driving operational excellence and delivering measurable improvements. Professional Certifications Six Sigma Green Belt certification is required. Six Sigma Black Belt certification is an added advantage. Skills & Knowledge Strong knowledge of: Lean Manufacturing Principles Kaizen Methodologies Process Improvement and Optimization Root Cause Analysis and Problem-Solving Techniques Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including dashboards and data analysis. Project management capability with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously. Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills. Strong presentation and reporting abilities. Behavioral Competencies The ideal candidate should demonstrate: Strong leadership and ownership mindset. Results-driven and proactive approach to work. High level of accountability and integrity. Excellent communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills. Strategic thinking with strong attention to detail. Ability to drive change and influence organizational culture. Strong collaboration and team-building skills. Benefits Net Salary: ₦600,000 – ₦800,000 NET per month Relocation Support: Relocation grant provided to support the candidate's move to Sapele Health & Security: HMO, Group Life Insurance, Group Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness cover. Retirement: Pension contributions. Bonuses: 13th-month allowance + Performance incentives