Continuous Improvement Specialist

Job Description

**About Ya YA Foods:**

Ya YA Foods is a dynamic and high-growth manufacturer of liquid food and unique beverages. With over 30 years’ experience, we have evolved into a versatile manufacturer and co-packer of a variety of low acid and high acid beverage and liquid food items. We are a family-owned Canadian business who prides itself in its proven track record of satisfying the needs of global multi-national customers. We are a solution provider for our customers, always striving to exceed expectations on innovation, quality, service, and speed to market. For further information about us, please check our website at yayafoods.com

**A career at Ya YA FOODS will offer you the opportunity to…**

* Build a career, not just have a job
* Work in a dynamic and high-growth company with very skilled professionals
* Become part of a teamwork focused culture
* Be a part of an organization that supports your future growth path

**Reports to:** Operations Leader

**Responsibilities**

* Collect, organize, analyze, and chart plant production reports, maintenance reports, etc.
* Prepare summaries of data indicators and highlight process deficiencies, process non-compliance to Department Managers.
* Evaluate production bottlenecks and develop action plans to increase efficiency.
* Make recommendations and assist in implementation of corrective actions.
* Receive input from stakeholders and document detailed procedures to accompany processes for training.
* Develop, implement and track KPIs for various departments.
* Analyze KPIs and recommends process changes leading to more efficient production.
* Support and design internal and external reporting requirements.
* Focus on teaching operations staff to use Lean tools (5, fishbone, 5-whys, PDCA).
* Observe all safety rules and promote a safe working environment with team members.
* Compliance with all rules & policies regarding health safety, occupational safety, environmental safety, food safety, legal regulations, company requirements, etc.
* Compliance with the Company's Integrated Management Systems which includes, but is not limited to Production, Quality, Food Safety & GMP.
* Other duties as assigned.

**Profile**

* University Degree in Engineering, Continuous Improvement and Process Mapping or a related field
* Demonstrated project management skills
* Proven ability to facilitate and to motivate teams to form consensus
* Strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment
* Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Suite of Applications, Microsoft Navision), and instructional software
* Skill in organization, analysis, time management, prioritization, and the ability to meet deadlines for multiple tasks
* Good interpersonal skills and communication with all levels of management
* Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently
* Excellent leadership, team building, and management skills to encourage and mentor staff
* NB: Successful candidates will be required to provide photo ID, banking details, a valid SIN number, and (if applicable) a valid work permit

***Why Join Us***

We believe that the key to creating and growing a successful business is by investing in our people—some of whom have been a part of our team for over 30-years. This is at the core of who we are, what we do, and how we grow our business—as a versatile, automated manufacturer and co-packer of a wide-variety of beverages and liquid food items. In our view, a happy team means a better workforce, a better product, and more satisfied customers.

*Furthermore, we encourage different perspectives and celebrate diversity in our workforce. Where every employee has the opportunity to realize his or her full potential in a working environment that is supportive of everyone. Upon request, we will gladly provide accommodations to any candidate with a disability taking part in the selection process.*