Senior Continuous Improvement Specialist

Role Overview

Air New Zealand is on a dynamic journey aiming to deliver the world's best flying experience by strengthening connections within New Zealand and internationally. Central to this mission is enhancing workflows that unlock value swiftly through incremental and transformational initiatives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement (CI).

The Senior Continuous Improvement Specialist will be part of the Lean Chapter in the Transformation team based out of Auckland Airport Campus. This role involves partnering with delivery units, squads, and leadership to optimize processes and offer measurable results, while coaching peers in lean and CI methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross-departmental projects to drive improvements.
• Identify and eliminate waste, reduce variability, and enhance efficiency across operations.
• Develop and implement strategic improvement roadmaps.
• Achieve tangible improvement outcomes through hands-on project execution.
• Contribute to initiatives involving digital solutions and automation for process enhancements.
• Mentor and coach teams to cultivate continuous improvement capabilities throughout the organization.

Candidate Profile

• Significant expertise in continuous improvement, including advanced lean six sigma (LSS) proficiency with formal certification preferred (green belt or black belt).
• At least eight years of practical experience applying and coaching LSS methodologies.
• Graduate-level qualification relevant to the role.
• Strong analytical skills including mathematical modeling and statistical techniques.
• Proven track record in delivering measurable improvements and leading cross-functional and transformational CI initiatives.
• Competence in developing business cases, evaluating options, change management, and stakeholder facilitation.
• Experience designing and executing process improvements, familiar with operational and technological enhancement efforts using DMAIC framework.
• Consultative leadership style capable of influencing stakeholders without formal authority.

Additional Information

This role is Auckland-based and entails some domestic travel along with variable shift work. Air New Zealand is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, valuing the unique perspectives and backgrounds of its employees. The company offers flexible leave options, generous travel benefits for staff and their networks, and a career environment rich in development opportunities.

Applications close on 22nd October 2026.