Business Improvement Lead

TL;DR

Business Improvement Lead (Manufacturing): Facilitating manufacturing process optimization and operational excellence at the Whareroa site with an accent on change management and continuous improvement strategies. Focus on leading improvement initiatives, embedding systems and tools to drive productivity, and influencing stakeholders to achieve business targets.

Location: On-site in Taranaki, New Zealand

Company

hirify.global is a global dairy co-operative owned by New Zealand farmers, dedicated to creating sustainable value and positive change through collaboration and innovation.

What you will do

• Lead, plan, and manage overall business improvement and change management initiatives.
• Facilitate the optimization of manufacturing processes and embed a continuous improvement culture.
• Engage with internal stakeholders to align department goals and ensure accountability.
• Implement clear measurements and provide regular progress updates to maintain momentum.
• Model company values while driving positive leadership change across the site.
• Identify opportunities to unlock potential and meet business improvement targets.

Requirements

• Proven leadership, program management, and continuous improvement experience.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic agility.
• Structured problem-solving experience, ideally using Lean manufacturing or Operational Excellence methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to engage, motivate, and facilitate teams to drive change.
• Excellent influencing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Must be able to work on-site at the Whareroa manufacturing facility.

Nice to have

• Tertiary qualification in Food, Technology, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

Culture & Benefits

• Fair and equitable pay structure.
• Comprehensive health and well-being programs, including medical and mental health support.
• Commitment to professional development and career growth.
• Support for community involvement and cultural connection.
• Inclusive work environment that values diversity and individual contribution.