Process Lead IWS

About the role

Danone is hiring a Process Lead for its IWS operations in Auckland. Reporting to the Line Lead, this is a hands-on technical position where you will act as the line specialist, focused on reducing process losses, improving equipment standards, and strengthening work practices across the production line.

You will partner with Shift Engineers, Operators, Quality, and Technical teams to help maintain a safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing environment. The role suits someone who enjoys diagnosing problems, guiding others, and creating visible operational improvements.

Key responsibilities

• Drive improvement work on equipment, standardisation, and reduction of operational losses.
• Review process data, identify the underlying causes of issues, and put durable fixes in place.
• Own centre-lining, line settings, recipes, and process documentation/standards.
• Coach and train Operators and Engineers on equipment use and process updates.
• Support Dan-IWS practices, daily management systems, and continuous improvement activity.
• Take part in daily planning, scheduled stoppages, and change management activities.
• Help maintain a strong safety, quality, and food safety mindset on the line.
• Contribute to quality systems such as HACCP, iCare, ISO 22000, and incident investigations.

About you

Danone is looking for an energetic, proactive professional with experience in production or manufacturing settings. You should be comfortable engaging different stakeholders, building team capability, and actively contributing to continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Experience in food, dairy, or manufacturing environments is strongly preferred.
• Strong technical aptitude with analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to coach, influence, and develop others.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work across functions.
• A relevant technical or engineering qualification is desirable.
• Willingness to work in a 24/7 manufacturing environment when needed.

Benefits

• Collaborative, high-performance team culture.
• Diverse and inclusive workplace.
• Personalised learning opportunities.
• Competitive total rewards package.
• Company-paid medical insurance for you, plus discounts for your whānau.
• Free life insurance.
• Free flu vaccination, annual medical checks, and onsite car parking.
• 26 weeks of gender-neutral paid parental leave.
• Employee Share Subscription Plan after 12 months of service.
• Performance-linked incentives and annual reviews.
• Discounts on company products.
• Gym and café discounts.
• Annual bonus scheme.
• Fresh fruit every day.
• 4% KiwiSaver contribution and additional benefits.

About Danone

Danone works to inspire healthier and more sustainable eating and drinking habits in line with its vision, One Planet. One Health. The company operates across Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Waters, and Specialised Nutrition, with headquarters in France, offices in 55 countries, and products sold in more than 120 markets. Its well-known brands include YoPro, Activia, Aptamil, and Karicare.

Danone ANZ focuses on dairy and specialised nutrition products for infants and adults and has been recognised as a Great Place to Work in ANZ for five consecutive years.

Additional information

This is a full-time, onsite position based in Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. Applications close on 13 April 2026.

Equal opportunity

Danone states that it is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to an inclusive, diverse workplace. All qualified applicants are considered fairly without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.