Reimagined SMAS Business Improvement Academy Ayrshire

Introducing the enhanced SMAS Business Improvement Academy.

The enhanced Business Improvement Academy (BIA) from the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) delivers a high-impact, hands-on programme to help manufacturers and process-driven businesses not only learn about Lean but embed it into their operations – and now, reimagined for greater impact, it’s accredited by the Lean Competency System (LCS), Europe’s leading business improvement framework developed by Cardiff University

This gives your team internationally recognised credentials in Lean thinking and continuous improvement.

By focusing on practical application and continuous improvement, the Academy ensures you'll develop the capability to integrate Lean tools and techniques effectively, driving sustainable productivity gains, improved performance, and stronger leadership across the organisation.

Why join?

• •Productivity that lasts - learn how to eliminate waste, streamline operations, and embed a culture of continuous improvement
• Real business impact – deliver a live improvement project tailored to your business – with an average saving of £130,000 per project
• Leadership for change - build the confidence and skills to lead improvement, influence culture, and inspire your team
• Tailored support - benefit from one-to-one coaching and peer learning to unlock long-term improvement goals

What’s included:

• Expert-led workshops
• Peer-to-peer learning
• Interactive Lean tools and techniques
• Certification from globally recognised Lean Competency System (LCS)
• Access to the LCS network, support, and events
• Ongoing wrap-around support from Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and South of Scotland Enterprise – dependant on your location.

The outcome?

Get the skills to develop a more productive, competitive, and forward-thinking business - led by people who know how to make change happen.

Programme overview

You’ll learn about:

• Lean
• Change management
• Leadership and coaching training

The SMAS Business Improvement Academy offers a comprehensive programme designed to develop your skills in Lean methodologies, change management, leadership, and coaching. The programme is structured to ensure you’ll gain practical experience in leading change, driving process improvements, and fostering a culture of continuous development within their business.

In addition to formal training, you’ll have opportunities for interactive learning, certification through the globally recognised Lean Competency System (LCS), and access to a supportive network of peers and industry experts. Ongoing wrap-around support from Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and South of Scotland Enterprise is provided, tailored to your location.

Your commitment

You’ll be expected to actively engage in all elements of the programme, which includes attending each delegate day, taking part in the final exam, participating in a best practice visit, and completing on-site coaching sessions. Commitment to the full programme ensures delegates are equipped to lead operational improvements and contribute to their organisation’s competitiveness and productivity.

Eligibility

We’re seeking ambitious businesses, managers, directors, and change leaders committed to driving meaningful, sustainable improvement and growth. The Academy is designed to support businesses in achieving lasting operational excellence. We’ll have an initial meeting with you to confirm your suitability.

Please note:

Your sponsoring business leader will need to attend a half-day sponsors session on the 17 February 2026. This is so that they can fully understand their role in supporting you back in the workplace as you implement change. They will also be required to attend the final participants presentation day 2 June 2026.

You’ll be required to:

• Complete regular assessments whilst in the academy to demonstrate your ability to retain and apply learning
• Meet the Academy’s accreditation standards in your final project to receive a LCS certificate

The cost is £1000 (excluding VAT) for an SME and £1250 (excluding VAT) for a non-SME per delegate paid in advance by credit card via our Eventbrite link.

For further details, contact Ashley Gibson at or your regional SMAS contact.

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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Ingrams Enterprise Centre, John Finnie Street, Kilmarnock, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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