Production System Development (SSP) Specialist
About the role
Job Location: Brantford, ON
Brantford
Company Description Ferrero is a family-owned company with a truly progressive and global outlook and iconic brands such as Nutella®, Tic Tac®, Ferrero Rocher®, Raffaello®, Kinder Bueno® and Kinder Surprise®. As the love for our brands continues to grow, so too does our global reach. Represented in more than 50 countries, with products sold in more than 170, the Ferrero Group is loved by generations around the world. The secret to our global success? 40,000 dedicated employees who celebrate care and quality to craft a business, careers and brands we are proud of. Join us, and you could be one of them.
About the Role: Join a high-impact team driving operational excellence at the plant level! This role supports the SSP Manager in analyzing processes, identifying opportunities for optimization, and proposing strategic improvements to the Plant Manager. You’ll lead and support continuous improvement projects, playing a key role in deploying FOX (Ferrero Operational Excellence) initiatives and helping shape the future of our production system.
From collaborating with cross-functional teams and supporting UGP Master Plan execution, to promoting a culture of improvement and innovation, you'll influence departments, manage strategic projects, and contribute to the plant’s journey toward industrial excellence.
Main Responsibilities: Continuous Improvement
- Promote and cascade the FOX culture across departments, engaging with UGP/Department Managers and supporting cross-functional improvement initiatives.
- Facilitate workshops using FOX tools (e.g., 5S, Root Cause Analysis, SMED), deliver training through the Industrial Academy, and support the plant’s SQCDME goals.
- Analyze data (OEE, OAE, trends, benchmarks) to identify opportunities and measure the impact of improvement projects.
Areas of Interventions/Improvements
- Identify and collect new improvement ideas from plant resources and support UGP Area Managers in analyzing their potential benefits.
- Provide methodological and problem-solving guidance, manage resource planning for improvement activities, and lead FOX-related workshops across departments.
Improvement Ideas (MiCo) through FOX
- Manage the Idea Management (IM) app, including system setup, updates, and reporting.
- Support teams in identifying root causes and cost-benefit analysis of proposed solutions, ensuring alignment with Group standards.
- Coordinate approvals and implementation in Smart Factory platforms.
Strategic Projects and Ad Hoc Projects
- Assist the SSP Manager in analyzing plant processes and managing strategic and ad hoc projects across key pillars: Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Motivation, and Environment.
Communication and Coordination
- Actively participate in UGPs and department meetings to foster cross-functional alignment.
- Maintain clear communication around FOX initiatives and plant development, including the UGP master plan.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Evaluate and report results of FOX initiatives with project leaders, ensure regular updates to stakeholders, and track progress to identify risks and recovery actions.
- Develop and maintain a detailed FOX tools implementation plan.
Methods and Process
- Benchmark and implement standardized project methodologies aligned with Ferrero’s culture.
- Support SSP Manager with project management tools and methods.
- Partner with UGPs, RDLs, and other leaders to drive FOX implementation.
Standardization and Sharing
- Ensure results from FOX initiatives are sustainable and standardized through procedures and cross-department sharing.
- Drive the spread of best practices and excellence solutions throughout the plant.
FOX
- Support the propagation of FOX principles and techniques, ensuring effective communication and training.
- Coordinate cross-functional FOX deployment and foster a mindset of continuous improvement in UGPs and departments.
Local Projects
- Lead or support cross-functional and ad hoc projects, including those outside of formal continuous improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to change management and UGP master plan implementation.
SQCDME
- Ensure SQCDME standards are embedded and maintained.
- Lead or support projects that enhance Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Motivation, and Environmental performance.
Smart Factory
- Drive the implementation and management of Smart Factory applications (e.g., IM, Digital SIM, Mobile Maintenance).
- Perform data analysis and configuration using tools like Power BI, contributing to app improvements and continuous improvement enablement.
Who we are looking for: To be considered for this position you must meet the following qualifications:
- 2–4 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with exposure to continuous improvement, lean methodologies, or operational excellence.
- Prior experience facilitating or supporting improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, or WCM/FOX) preferred.
- Experience with project coordination and cross-functional collaboration.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis tools (Power BI is a strong asset).
- Familiarity with Smart Factory technologies, app configuration, and data systems (IM, Digital SIM, Mobile Maintenance, etc.).
- Knowledge of continuous improvement tools (e.g., 5S, Root Cause Analysis, SMED, Kobetsu Kaizen, AM/PM pillars).
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities to engage stakeholders across departments.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and influence cross-functional teams.
- A proactive mindset with a passion for driving innovation and operational excellence.
- Six Sigma Green Belt or similar certification is an asset.
- Knowledge of SQCDME framework and its application in plant performance improvement.
Diversity Statement
Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all of our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative and highly rewarding.
How to be successful in the role and at Ferrero: Consumers, quality and care are at the heart of everything we do. So, to be successful at Ferrero, you’ll need to be just as consumer and product centric as we are - dedicated to crafting brilliant results for consumers around the world.
About Ferrero
Founded in 1946 by Pietro and Giovanni Ferrero, the Ferrero Group is a family-owned business in its third generation. It has been built by talented people who share a commitment towards continuous improvement to achieve the highest quality and care. This same commitment is put into everything we do for our consumers and characterizes the environment in which we operate. Some of the world’s most iconic confectionery products come from Ferrero, including Nutella®, Tic Tac®, Ferrero Rocher®, and Kinder Surprise®. Sold in more than 170 countries, our products are part of the collective memory and traditions of consumers all around the world; loved by generations. In 2015, we entered a new era of acquisitions. Since then, we have acquired several brands and businesses, including Fannie May, the confectionary division of Nestlé, and Eat Natural, expanding our footprint and product offering also into the healthy snack segment. The secret to our global success is our 38,767 employees across the world, all dedicated to delivering the care and quality to craft the business, the careers and the brands we are proud of. From the moment you join us, we make sure you can nurture your curiosity and natural abilities. We provide the resources you need to succeed personally and professionally in a diverse work environment that is multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding. In 2021, Ferrero was the confectionary company with the best reputation in the world, according to RepTrak. This achievement reflects our determination to bring consumers only the very best; an approach which is at the heart of everything we do. Our dedication to quality and excellence, our heritage and our family values, as well as our respect for the environment and the communities in which we work, are all seen in our desire to sustain and celebrate life’s special moments. Be part of it! Visit www.ferrerocareers.com to explore the opportunities Ferrero can offer when you craft your career with us.
Production System Development (SSP) Specialist
About the role
Job Location: Brantford, ON
Brantford
Company Description Ferrero is a family-owned company with a truly progressive and global outlook and iconic brands such as Nutella®, Tic Tac®, Ferrero Rocher®, Raffaello®, Kinder Bueno® and Kinder Surprise®. As the love for our brands continues to grow, so too does our global reach. Represented in more than 50 countries, with products sold in more than 170, the Ferrero Group is loved by generations around the world. The secret to our global success? 40,000 dedicated employees who celebrate care and quality to craft a business, careers and brands we are proud of. Join us, and you could be one of them.
About the Role: Join a high-impact team driving operational excellence at the plant level! This role supports the SSP Manager in analyzing processes, identifying opportunities for optimization, and proposing strategic improvements to the Plant Manager. You’ll lead and support continuous improvement projects, playing a key role in deploying FOX (Ferrero Operational Excellence) initiatives and helping shape the future of our production system.
From collaborating with cross-functional teams and supporting UGP Master Plan execution, to promoting a culture of improvement and innovation, you'll influence departments, manage strategic projects, and contribute to the plant’s journey toward industrial excellence.
Main Responsibilities: Continuous Improvement
- Promote and cascade the FOX culture across departments, engaging with UGP/Department Managers and supporting cross-functional improvement initiatives.
- Facilitate workshops using FOX tools (e.g., 5S, Root Cause Analysis, SMED), deliver training through the Industrial Academy, and support the plant’s SQCDME goals.
- Analyze data (OEE, OAE, trends, benchmarks) to identify opportunities and measure the impact of improvement projects.
Areas of Interventions/Improvements
- Identify and collect new improvement ideas from plant resources and support UGP Area Managers in analyzing their potential benefits.
- Provide methodological and problem-solving guidance, manage resource planning for improvement activities, and lead FOX-related workshops across departments.
Improvement Ideas (MiCo) through FOX
- Manage the Idea Management (IM) app, including system setup, updates, and reporting.
- Support teams in identifying root causes and cost-benefit analysis of proposed solutions, ensuring alignment with Group standards.
- Coordinate approvals and implementation in Smart Factory platforms.
Strategic Projects and Ad Hoc Projects
- Assist the SSP Manager in analyzing plant processes and managing strategic and ad hoc projects across key pillars: Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Motivation, and Environment.
Communication and Coordination
- Actively participate in UGPs and department meetings to foster cross-functional alignment.
- Maintain clear communication around FOX initiatives and plant development, including the UGP master plan.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Evaluate and report results of FOX initiatives with project leaders, ensure regular updates to stakeholders, and track progress to identify risks and recovery actions.
- Develop and maintain a detailed FOX tools implementation plan.
Methods and Process
- Benchmark and implement standardized project methodologies aligned with Ferrero’s culture.
- Support SSP Manager with project management tools and methods.
- Partner with UGPs, RDLs, and other leaders to drive FOX implementation.
Standardization and Sharing
- Ensure results from FOX initiatives are sustainable and standardized through procedures and cross-department sharing.
- Drive the spread of best practices and excellence solutions throughout the plant.
FOX
- Support the propagation of FOX principles and techniques, ensuring effective communication and training.
- Coordinate cross-functional FOX deployment and foster a mindset of continuous improvement in UGPs and departments.
Local Projects
- Lead or support cross-functional and ad hoc projects, including those outside of formal continuous improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to change management and UGP master plan implementation.
SQCDME
- Ensure SQCDME standards are embedded and maintained.
- Lead or support projects that enhance Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Motivation, and Environmental performance.
Smart Factory
- Drive the implementation and management of Smart Factory applications (e.g., IM, Digital SIM, Mobile Maintenance).
- Perform data analysis and configuration using tools like Power BI, contributing to app improvements and continuous improvement enablement.
Who we are looking for: To be considered for this position you must meet the following qualifications:
- 2–4 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with exposure to continuous improvement, lean methodologies, or operational excellence.
- Prior experience facilitating or supporting improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, or WCM/FOX) preferred.
- Experience with project coordination and cross-functional collaboration.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis tools (Power BI is a strong asset).
- Familiarity with Smart Factory technologies, app configuration, and data systems (IM, Digital SIM, Mobile Maintenance, etc.).
- Knowledge of continuous improvement tools (e.g., 5S, Root Cause Analysis, SMED, Kobetsu Kaizen, AM/PM pillars).
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities to engage stakeholders across departments.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and influence cross-functional teams.
- A proactive mindset with a passion for driving innovation and operational excellence.
- Six Sigma Green Belt or similar certification is an asset.
- Knowledge of SQCDME framework and its application in plant performance improvement.
Diversity Statement
Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all of our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative and highly rewarding.
How to be successful in the role and at Ferrero: Consumers, quality and care are at the heart of everything we do. So, to be successful at Ferrero, you’ll need to be just as consumer and product centric as we are - dedicated to crafting brilliant results for consumers around the world.
About Ferrero
Founded in 1946 by Pietro and Giovanni Ferrero, the Ferrero Group is a family-owned business in its third generation. It has been built by talented people who share a commitment towards continuous improvement to achieve the highest quality and care. This same commitment is put into everything we do for our consumers and characterizes the environment in which we operate. Some of the world’s most iconic confectionery products come from Ferrero, including Nutella®, Tic Tac®, Ferrero Rocher®, and Kinder Surprise®. Sold in more than 170 countries, our products are part of the collective memory and traditions of consumers all around the world; loved by generations. In 2015, we entered a new era of acquisitions. Since then, we have acquired several brands and businesses, including Fannie May, the confectionary division of Nestlé, and Eat Natural, expanding our footprint and product offering also into the healthy snack segment. The secret to our global success is our 38,767 employees across the world, all dedicated to delivering the care and quality to craft the business, the careers and the brands we are proud of. From the moment you join us, we make sure you can nurture your curiosity and natural abilities. We provide the resources you need to succeed personally and professionally in a diverse work environment that is multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding. In 2021, Ferrero was the confectionary company with the best reputation in the world, according to RepTrak. This achievement reflects our determination to bring consumers only the very best; an approach which is at the heart of everything we do. Our dedication to quality and excellence, our heritage and our family values, as well as our respect for the environment and the communities in which we work, are all seen in our desire to sustain and celebrate life’s special moments. Be part of it! Visit www.ferrerocareers.com to explore the opportunities Ferrero can offer when you craft your career with us.