Engineering Business Improvement Lead

Engineering Business Improvement Lead

Final date to receive applications: 5 October 2026

Department: Engineering

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Brize Norton

Reporting To: Karl Howard-Norris

Compensation: £65,000 - £85,000 / year

We're looking for a Business Improvement Manager to drive continuous improvement across our Engineering & Maintenance function.

This role plays a key part in improving operational performance, increasing efficiency, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement. Working closely with stakeholders across the business, you will identify opportunities, lead change initiatives, and deliver measurable results that support both operational and strategic objectives. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive leader who enjoys solving complex problems, influencing stakeholders, and delivering meaningful business change.

Air Tanker is a vital part of the UK’s defence capability, delivering air-to-air refuelling and air transport services to the RAF and MOD. We operate at the intersection of military precision and commercial innovation. As a Business Improvement Manager, you will work across Engineering & Maintenance to help teams perform at their best. Partnering with leaders and key stakeholders, you will lead initiatives that strengthen planning, enhance ways of working, and support the delivery of strategic objectives.

Using insight, collaboration, and a structured approach to problem solving, you will help drive sustainable improvements that deliver lasting value to the business.

• Cross-functional exposure: Partner with Engineering, Finance, HR, and senior stakeholders, gaining broad insight into how the business operates
• Visible impact: Lead initiatives that deliver measurable improvements in performance, efficiency, and ways of working across the organisation
• Problem-solving focus: Tackle complex operational challenges, using data and insight to identify opportunities and deliver sustainable solutions
• Comprehensive benefits: Access private medical insurance, bonus scheme, EV scheme, contributory pension, and additional company benefits.
• Adventure and belonging: Take part in battlefield tours, adventure training, and family events. Build strong connections across the organisation.

• Lead and manage the Engineering & Maintenance business improvement plan.
• Drive continuous improvement projects that enhance operational performance, efficiency, and productivity.
• Support departments through change initiatives and promote best practice in change management.
• Coach and support teams in planning, prioritisation, and continuous improvement techniques.
• Manage and prioritise improvement activities, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Analyse operational and financial data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Develop reporting, performance measures, and data-driven insights to support decision-making.
• Facilitate workshops and problem-solving activities with teams and stakeholders.
• Build effective working relationships across Engineering & Maintenance and the wider business.
• Lead, coach, and develop members of the Business Improvement team.

• Experience leading and developing people.
• Experience delivering continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, process improvement, or similar methodologies.
• Strong facilitation and workshop delivery skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience managing projects and budgets.
• The ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
• Lean Leadership training or equivalent experience.