Advanced Process Improvement Manager - Job Opportunity at FrieslandCampina

Wageningen, Netherlands
Full-time
Senior
Posted: April 10, 2025
Hybrid
EUR 95,000 - 120,000 annual base plus performance bonus of 15-20%, aligned with senior management compensation in Dutch food manufacturing sector

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme with above-market employer contributions
Company car with fuel allowance reflecting senior position
Work-life balance focus with flexible hours and hybrid work arrangement
8% holiday allowance exceeding standard Dutch market practice
Performance-based bonus scheme aligned with industry standards
Comprehensive professional development program including cross-functional rotation opportunities
On-site amenities including complimentary dairy products and premium coffee service
40-hour workweek with flexible scheduling options

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic deployment of enterprise-wide process improvement initiatives with direct P&L impact
Develop and implement global continuous improvement framework across international operations
Drive cultural transformation toward operational excellence through change management
Direct high-stakes project portfolio with focus on cost reduction and efficiency optimization
Build and mentor global team of Six Sigma professionals to ensure sustainable improvement capability
Establish performance monitoring systems to track and report strategic initiative outcomes
Guide advanced problem-solving initiatives targeting complex operational challenges
Strengthen organizational capability through knowledge transfer and best practice implementation

Requirements

Education

Academic/Master degree in engineering, food science, business management, or related field

Experience

Significant experience in Advanced Process Improvement within dairy/food manufacturing

Required Skills

Statistical Analysis and data tools (Minitab/JMP) Lean Six Sigma methodologies Quality Management systems Project Management Business Acumen Advanced Problem-Solving Stakeholder Management Leadership & Team Building Communication & Change Management

Certifications

Advanced Lean Six Sigma certification (Black Belt or Master Black Belt required)
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Increasing focus on sustainable manufacturing practices in dairy sector with emphasis on waste reduction and energy efficiency Growing complexity in global supply chain operations driving demand for advanced process improvement expertise Rising importance of data-driven decision making and predictive analytics in food manufacturing Shift towards integrated quality management systems incorporating both traditional and digital tools

Role Significance

Expected to lead a team of 5-8 direct reports with matrix responsibility for 15-20 improvement professionals globally
Senior leadership position with direct influence on strategic operational decisions and organizational transformation

Key Projects

Enterprise-wide efficiency optimization programs with typical budgets of EUR 1-3 million Global quality management system standardization initiatives Cross-functional cost reduction projects targeting 3-5% annual savings Cultural transformation programs focused on continuous improvement mindset

Success Factors

Ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscape while driving significant organizational change Strong foundation in both technical process improvement and strategic business management Experience in food safety and quality regulations combined with operational excellence expertise Proven track record of delivering measurable business impact through improvement initiatives

Market Demand

High demand position due to industry-wide focus on operational excellence and cost optimization in response to market pressures

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced statistical analysis capabilities essential for data-driven decision making in complex manufacturing environments Change management expertise crucial for driving cultural transformation across diverse international operations Deep understanding of food safety and quality systems vital for regulatory compliance and product excellence

Beneficial Skills

Knowledge of sustainable manufacturing practices and circular economy principles Experience with digital transformation in manufacturing operations Understanding of cooperative business models and stakeholder management

Unique Aspects

Rare opportunity to influence operational strategy in a global dairy cooperative structure
Strong focus on sustainability and innovation in process improvement initiatives
Direct connection between operational improvements and farmer-owner benefits

Career Growth

Typical tenure in role 3-5 years before progression to broader operational leadership positions

Potential Next Roles

Global Operations Excellence Director Supply Chain Transformation Leader VP of Manufacturing Chief Operating Officer

Company Overview

FrieslandCampina

FrieslandCampina is one of the world's largest dairy cooperatives with significant global presence and strong focus on sustainability and innovation

Top 5 global dairy company with particular strength in Asian markets and specialized nutrition
Strategic location in Dutch Food Valley with strong connections to research institutions and innovation ecosystem
Professional yet informal environment combining Dutch directness with international diversity
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