Continuous Improvement Programme Lead

Role overview

Douglas Pharmaceuticals is looking for a Continuous Improvement Programme Lead to help strengthen performance across its manufacturing operation in Henderson-Massey, Auckland. In this role, you will embed Lean principles into daily work, turning strategy into practical improvements that raise quality, improve efficiency, cut waste, and build long-term capability across the plant.

You will work alongside leaders and cross-functional teams to shape a culture where continuous improvement becomes part of everyday operations, not a one-off initiative.

Key responsibilities

• Drive Lean programmes that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity across manufacturing.
• Own and coordinate the continuous improvement pipeline so the most valuable work is prioritised and aligned to business goals.
• Run improvement workshops and problem-solving sessions using Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, A3, Root Cause Analysis, and DMAIC.
• Review operational data to spot improvement opportunities and assess the results of Lean initiatives.
• Measure and confirm business outcomes such as efficiency gains, better yield, improved OEE, shorter lead times, and reduced costs.
• Coach leaders and frontline teams on Lean methods, standard work, and structured problem-solving to create lasting capability.
• Support quality and GMP improvements by strengthening Right First Time performance and compliant working practices.
• Contribute improvement input to automation, digital transformation, capital projects, and Value Improvement Programme governance.
• Work across functions to embed continuous improvement into day-to-day operations and sustain results over time.

What you need

• At least 5 years of experience delivering measurable continuous improvement results in a manufacturing setting.
• A tertiary qualification in Engineering, Science, Business, or a related area, or equivalent practical experience.
• Strong command of Lean tools, waste reduction, flow improvement, and structured problem-solving.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional improvement work and influence stakeholders without formal authority.
• Capability to coach, train, and grow Lean skills in teams and leaders.
• Good analytical ability with confidence in interpreting operational data and turning it into action.
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments such as pharmaceutical, food, or medical device manufacturing is an advantage.
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification, or an equivalent qualification, is preferred.
• A collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, and genuine enthusiasm for continuous improvement.

Why join Douglas

• Join an award-winning workplace with a strong reputation as a great place to work.
• Enjoy real opportunities for growth, with a strong focus on internal development and promotion.
• Receive an extra week of annual leave after six years of service, taking total leave to five weeks.
• Access 16 weeks of top-up pay during parental leave.
• Benefit from life and income protection insurance.
• Use the THRIVE wellbeing programme to support your health and wellbeing.
• Take advantage of discounts on brands including Clinicians, BraveFace, Avène, Ego, and others.

About the company

Douglas is a privately owned, future-focused pharmaceutical business based in New Zealand and growing internationally. With around 500 people, including scientists, engineers, and many other specialists, the company develops high-quality healthcare products that support better lives around the world.

Additional information

This position is a full-time, onsite role in the Henderson-Massey Local Board Area, Auckland, New Zealand.

Continuous improvement at Douglas is described as an ongoing way of working rather than a standalone project, and the role is expected to help build a lasting improvement culture across the organisation.