Process Improvement Lead

Process Improvement Lead

At Ocado Group

Who We Are

Ocado is a UK based company admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange (Ticker OCDO). It comprises one of the world's largest dedicated online grocery retailers, operating its own grocery and general merchandise retail businesses under Ocado.com and other specialist shop banners, together with its Ocado Solutions division.

The Ocado Solutions division is responsible for providing Ocado’s innovative advanced robotics technology, known as the Ocado Smart Platform ("OSP"), to our major retailer clients around the world. OSP comprises access to Ocado's physical infrastructure solutions, running highly efficient warehouse operations for the single pick of products, together with the entire end-to-end proprietary software applications and advanced robotics required to operate a world-class online grocery business.

Our unique, proprietary and industry-leading technology is set to transform the shopping experience of consumers around the world. We have partnered with Kroger to help it redefine the grocery customer experience in the United States through the adoption of the centralized, automated model of online retailing provided by the Ocado Smart Platform.

Come join us as we build our North American team, bringing world-class innovation and technologies to one of the most exciting global markets for e-commerce.

What You Will Do

The Process Improvement Lead, reporting directly to the North America Head of Engineering, will act as a resource for NA Operational Improvements and other Best Practice-sharing to facilitate process development, standardization, and deployment of product improvements, process improvements, parts repair and failure verification.  Ability to travel up to 80% of the time for short-periods, some at short-notice.  May require extended travel if the situation warrants.  Additional responsibilities include site assessments and gap analysis regarding site compliance to stadardized processes. As needed, they will assist NA site leadership and teams by aligning site KPI quality with physical observations, measurements, and performance.  

The Process Improvement Lead day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Develop, manage, and lead the execution of continuous improvement projects at NA sites.  (ex. Project X level D)
• Work in unison with technical trainers and analytics personnel  to define cross site MHE optimum set-up, operation standards and documentation.
• Provide mentoring to local site leadership on new continuous improvement practices.
• Validation of site repair methods with the aid of the KPI packs provided -  implementing, via  site SEOM, an action plan to improve the bot fleet health.
• Conduct site process audits and provide compliance information to the Executive staff. 
• Providing assistance and guidance to SEOMs on any additional training, documentations or  policies that are required to ensure compliance. 
• Facilitate the development of future state process, business requirements and key performance metrics.
• Coordination of spares identification and appropriate site stock holdings.  Ensure all critical paths and single points of failure are captured.  
• Coordination of special tools and test equipment (STTE) requirements. 
• Create and manage processes for information feedback to Executive staff.

• Support and manage a team of CI Process specialists, managing day to day progres, team issues and team development.
• Creation of project documentation as required: process maps, SOPs, process templates etc
• Identifying and managing the change and project risks associated with CI activities
• Work with the operational teams to identify and recommend process improvements
• Identify gaps in capability required to deliver optimal site performance.

• Support standardization and best practice implementation across the regions to ensure consistency in Tech Ops.
• Create, review, and update SOPs and training documents to establish standard work and develop initial documents for new processes and systems.
• Maintain an excellent working knowledge of engineering processes & procedures, as well as technical expertise in line with SOPs and SSOWs.
• Work with all NA sites to improve existing systems and processes using principles of six sigma, lean manufacturing and operational excellence.
• Adopt a flexible approach in relation to working hours, location, environment, and task undertaken to fit the needs of the business.
• Maintain documentation and records required for changes or improvements.
• Analyze failure, success, and ensure that sustainable and effective corrective and preventive action is taken to maintain or improve Engineering Operations.

The Process Improvement Lead may be asked to perform tasks as required by management deemed as a reasonable request. This job description is a summary of the typical functions of the role, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of possible role responsibilities, tasks and duties and is subject to review. The responsibilities, tasks and duties of the job holder might differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, might form part of the job.

If hired, the role will require travel within North America to support training on-site. Some projects may require shifting working hours to accommodate rotating shifts on site. 

Who You Are

To qualify for this position, you must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum of two years experience participating in developing and implementing processes within engineering and fulfillment-center operations.
• An Associate's degree or equivalent certification in a technology-related discipline or advanced training with a minimum of two years of professional experience preferred.
• Strong data-analytical skills, report building, data-mining and ability to identify opportunities for improvement and cost savings initiatives.  
• Experience of both reactive and preventative maintenance techniques.
• A basic understanding of lean methodologies and maintenance strategies is required. Lean Sigma and/or Six Sigma Green Belt is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and excellent relationship building capability with the ability to engage stakeholders across the business.
• Able to work with little supervision, keen to adapt quickly and learn new techniques.
• Sound analytical skills with an eye for detail; good problem solving ability and a practical approach.

• PC-proficient including experience with Google Suite applications.
• Flexible to working a shift-based pattern including nights and weekends as necessary to implement processes and procedures.
• Ability to travel up to 80% of the time for short-periods, some at short-notice.  May require extended travel if the situation warrants.

Physical Activities: 

• Ascending or descending ladders and stairs. 
• Moving between worksites to accomplish tasks in tight and confined spaces. 
• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for a prolonged period. 
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 30 pounds in all directions. Work that includes moving objects up to 100 pounds or more. 
• Communicating with others to exchange information. 

Environmental Conditions: 

• Low temperatures and noisy environments. 

Location

You will be based at the customer fulfillment center near a NA Ocado Location.