KTP Associate - Process Improvement & Digital Transformation
What you'll be doing:
Map, analyse, and improve core processes across production (boiling, cutting, cooling, packaging)
Use tools like VSM, OEE, and condition monitoring to drive operational gains
Design and run pilot trials to validate process improvements and scale efficiencies
Develop a digital twin simulation of the manufacturing environment
Build a centralised business process management system (BPMS) and data dashboards
Lead cultural and systems change, embedding continuous improvement and training staff
Contribute to sustainable growth while maintaining the high-quality handmade reputation Aldomak is known for
What we're looking for:
A sharp, pragmatic engineer or scientist who wants to apply their skills in a real manufacturing environment, not just a lab or a screen.
Essential:
A strong degree (BEng/MEng/MSc/PhD) in: Manufacturing / Industrial Engineering, Process or Systems Engineering or Food Technology with a process or data focus
Experience or exposure to LEAN, Six Sigma, or other improvement frameworks
Ability to analyse systems and suggest realistic, scalable improvements
Confident communicator - you'll need to work with everyone from operators to the MD
Desirable:
Knowledge of mechanical systems in a production setting (e.g. heating, cutting, packaging machinery)
Experience with simulation tools, dashboards, or digital twins
Exposure to SME culture, food production or artisan/low-volume batch environments
What you'll get:
£4667 personal training budget + access to national KTP leadership training
Dedicated support from both academic experts and senior company leaders
The chance to publish academic work and attend conferences (if that interests you)
A rare opportunity to deliver end-to-end transformation in a live business - and see your work make a real impact
The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.
You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at
UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.
UWS is a "Disability Confident" employer.
University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.
About the company:
We're a BRC AA-rated Scottish food manufacturer supplying both consumers and major retailers. We produce fudge, tablet, meringues, and new high-growth product lines like our fortified breakfast bars - all made by people, not robots. We're investing heavily in smart, sustainable manufacturing to stay true to our roots while scaling for the future.
About KTP:
This position forms part of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded by Innovate UK. It's essential you understand how KTP works with business and the University, and the vital role you will play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position. Please visit: or contact Stuart McKay
WHY UWS?
We support you - We are the only Scottish University to have a dedicated KTP centre, meaning you are fully supported throughout your time with the company by UWS staff.
We are growing - In 2019, UWS were the top performing University in the UK by value of secured KTP projects.
KTP is a strategic priority at UWS. The only Scottish University with a dedicated KTP Centre dedicated to supporting your KTP and professional development journey.
If you have questions about this vacancy contact: Dario or Michele Cano
About the business
Help shape the future of artisan manufacturing - without losing the soul.
Aldomak Ltd, a proudly Scottish manufacturer of high-quality handmade confectionery, is partnering with the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). We're looking for a Process-driven graduate to lead a full-spectrum transformation project - improving production efficiency, integrating digital systems, and enhancing capacity while preserving our artisan methods.