Job Description

Overview:

Join our Process Improvement - Commercial team and help shape the future of our manufacturing operations. Working across Manufacturing & Supply Chain (MSC) and the wider business, you'll lead practical improvement projects that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve financial performance.

We're embracing Smart Factory principles to modernise how we work--integrating digital tools, automation, and real-time insights to drive smarter decision-making and more agile operations. In this role, you'll help scope and implement these technologies, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits on the shop floor.

You'll work hands-on with teams across departments to identify opportunities, pilot new solutions, and embed changes that stick. From refining production processes to supporting digital transformation initiatives, your focus will be on making improvements that matter.

We're looking for someone with experience in manufacturing or operational improvement, who enjoys working collaboratively and driving change. Strong project management skills and a practical mindset are key--along with a curiosity for how technology can support better ways of working.

This is a really exciting time to join apetito as plans for our brand new factory 'Kitchen West' are underway.

Competitive Salary + Bonus + Benefits

Who we are:

apetito is the UK's leading food supplier to the health and social care sectors serving more than 1,300 care homes, health care and education settings.
Our meals are expertly crafted by our dieticians and chefs, and then frozen to lock in the goodness.
Wiltshire Farm Foods, our sister company, is the UK's largest ready meal supplier cooking and delivering over 330 different delicious frozen ready meals across the UK.
Responsibilities:

Digital Solution Deployment & Proof of Concepts

Scope and evaluate digital manufacturing solutions aligned with operational objectives. Conduct proof of concepts (PoCs) to validate system feasibility and business impact. apetito lead to deploy and integrate systems such as SCADA, MES, or similar platforms into manufacturing operations. Map current processes and data flows to prevent duplicated functionalities.

System Management & Troubleshooting

Manage and maintain deployed systems to ensure consistent performance. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in collaboration with IT and engineering teams. Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and security across platforms.

Governance & Documentation

Develop and maintain governance documentation for all deployed solutions. Define and implement system usage protocols, roles, and responsibilities.

Data-Driven Performance & Process Improvement

Use Excel and coding tools (e.g., Python, SQL, VBA) to analyse data and identify improvement opportunities. Carryout scenario modelling to inform decisions on capacity and new investments. Work with operations and manufacturing teams to achieve performance and efficiency targets set for new or improved systems. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to maximise ROI and enhance productivity.

Stakeholder & Change Management

Lead change management efforts to ensure smooth adoption of new technologies. Engage with a wide range of stakeholders across manufacturing, operations, supply chain, and IT. Provide user training, guidance, and ongoing support.

Qualifications/Personal Qualities:

Essential:

Degree in Engineering or Computer Science discipline Proven experience in deploying or contributing to SCADA, MES, or other digital manufacturing systems. Strong project management skills with end-to-end delivery experience. Advanced Excel skills and basic coding proficiency (Python, SQL, VBA). Experience in conducting PoCs, managing systems, and resolving technical issues. Strong data analysis and process improvement background. Demonstrated ability to map and optimise data flows. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. Excellent analysis, problem management, and interpersonal skills

Desirable

Experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methodologies. Certification in Project Management (PRINCE2, PMP, or Agile). Familiarity with Industry 4.0, IoT, and manufacturing data integration platforms.

Personal Qualities:

A completer finisher Self-motivated and able to own and manage workload with minimal supervision - a proven self-starter Able to demonstrate a structured approach to work as well as being able to work well in team environment and deal with people professionally at all levels

Company Benefits:
Competitive salary - accredited Living Wage employer 25 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays Option to purchase up to 5 additional days holiday per year Discretionary annual bonus scheme Pension scheme - employer matched contributions up to 4% Life assurance scheme worth at least 1x annual salary Subsidised canteen Free parking Free turkey or voucher at Christmas Access to employee benefits including Perkbox with salary sacrifice options and retail discounts

Our Values:

As a family-owned business, we take great pride in being a company that makes a real difference and is dedicated to creating outstanding meals to be proud of.

We develop a range of products designed to enhance health and well-being for all our customers.

We are driven by a passion for service and dedicated to feeding some of the UK's most vulnerable people.

We proudly support British food and farming, focusing on using the best ethical and sustainable produce in alignment with our goal to reach Net Zero by 2040.
Our ethical standards are recognised by the ETI and we are an accredited Living Wage employer.

Learn more about apetito's commitment to a more sustainable future.

We embrace inclusion, empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Our commitment to making a real difference extends to customers, communities, and staff and we're on a mission to build an inclusive workplace where everyone reaches their full potential.