Continuous Improvement Co-ordinator

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

As a Continuous Improvement Co‑ordinator, you will provide professional expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement (CI) at the Dumfries site. You will manage the Winners Circle database, validate submissions locally and across the European Asterix platform, and support the Total Product Cost (TPC) reduction plan in line with corporate targets.

You will identify opportunities for process and equipment efficiency improvements, develop CI programmes, and provide guidance to all departments to embed Lean principles throughout the site. This role will also support the GPS roll‑out and ensure all CI activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards. Acts as a change agent—coaching teams, promoting best practice, and ensuring lasting improvements in performance and quality.

• Lead and coordinate Continuous Improvement activities at Dumfries, engaging with employees at all levels, including senior management.
• Manage the plant suggestion database and reward and recognition processes locally and across Europe.
• Support the TPC reduction programme, tracking cost and performance improvements.
• Coach, train, and develop employees in Lean Manufacturing tools and principles.
• Support HSE, ISO, and site governance requirements within CI projects.
• Contribute to regional CI initiatives and European best practice sharing.
• Report on CI progress and project outcomes to Plant Management and European CI team.

• Requires understanding and application of procedures and practices within own area and basic knowledge of other areas
• Understands how the team relates to other closely related teams to improve efficiency

• 3+ direct reports
• Has formal supervisory responsibilities; sets priorities for and coaches associates to meet deadlines
• Has performance management and people development responsibility for associates under their care
• Impacts the level of service and the team’s ability to meet quality, volume, and timelines objectives within their area
• Works within departmental objectives and priorities
• Implements, interprets and executes policies; recommends modifications
• Uses judgment to identify and resolve day‑to‑day problems
• Decision making involves compiling and organising information and selecting best option from well‑defined alternatives

• 5-7 years of experience in Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, or Operational Excellence within a manufacturing environment.
• University degree preferred, degree or equivalent in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, or a related discipline with a focus on process improvement.
• Lean or Six Sigma certification or equivalent (Green Belt or higher).
• Proven ability to train and coach others in Lean principles and CI methodologies.
• Project Management certification or relevant experience is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of Lean tools and techniques, including Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, SMED, and Standard Work.
• Experience coordinating cross‑functional improvement projects.
• Excellent organisational, planning, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data tracking tools.
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal.

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real‑world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job‑related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

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