This position is responsible for identifying, leading, and coordinating continuous improvement activities of a variety of company functions and driving operational excellence for the organization.

• Champion a culture of continuous improvement by instilling the principles of Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma. Work with employees at all levels of the organization to nurture the cultural transition from surviving to thriving by going from "Firefighters" to "Improvers".

• Work closely with various departments, including production, engineering, quality, and supply chain to identify gaps in performance relative to desired state and eliminate waste to focus on value, help align functions to support overall strategy and objectives.

• Collaborate with HR and training teams to deliver continuous improvement training programs, enhancing employee skills, and fostering a culture of problem-solving and innovation.

• Develop and execute a structured improvement roadmap, optimizing organizational processes and resource utilization by incorporating Lean manufacturing methodologies and Six Sigma or other prudent techniques.

• Utilize data [VPFlex, Polyvinyl Alcohol (PvA), etc.], analytics, and insights to strengthen decision-making and prioritize improvement projects with the most significant impact. Collaborate with operational teams to identify improvement opportunities in processes, productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Guide the implementation of sustainable improvement initiatives.

• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process performance and evaluate the success and sustainability of improvement initiatives. Effectively communicate improvement progress, results, and upcoming initiatives to all stakeholders, including senior management, teams, and employees, fostering transparency and support.

• Organize and lead cross-functional teams in Kaizen and VSM events, identifying process inefficiencies, eliminating waste, and implementing improvement solutions across all manufacturing sites.

• Travel domestically and internationally as required.

• Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, Operations Management, or a related field with relevant experience. Advanced degree preferred.

• 2-5 years management experience

• 5 years of progressive and diversified experience.

• 5 years management/leadership experience.

• Analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decision-making.

• Proven experience in leading continuous improvement initiatives within a manufacturing industry, preferably in textiles, plastics, or related sectors.

• Demonstrated ability to facilitate and lead Kaizen and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) events, drive process improvement, and achieve measurable sustainable results.

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate within teams at all levels.

• Enthusiastic about Continuous Improvement with the ability to inspire and motivate others.

• Experience in driving cultural change and fostering a mindset of continuous improvement.

• Knowledge of textiles or plastics manufacturing processes and supply chain management is an advantage.

• Ability to achieve results through other people and departments (influence without authority) with good presentation and communication skills.

• Strong multi-tasking capabilities, able to prioritize and manage different projects.

• Problem solving skills and the ability to apply them in a team context.

• Ability to objectively observe, reflect and conclude.

• Proficiency in data analysis and dashboard development using tools like Excel and Power BI.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Minitab or other statistical software, MS Office Suite, and Oracle ERP.

• Black Belt or Green Belt training preferred.

• Travel domestically and internationally as required (10% or less)

PERKS OF BEING PART OF OUR TEAM:

At Velcro USA Inc., we truly value our employees. We strive to support each and every employee by providing a safe and healthy work environment, challenging and rewarding careers, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. Velcro USA Inc. offers competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and generous time-off designed to meet the needs of our workforce. Advancement and growth opportunities are offered and encouraged to all employees.

Health and Welfare Benefits:

Medical and Prescription Coverage (HSA and HRA Options)

Dental Coverage

Vision Coverage

Flexible Spending Accounts

Award WinningWellness and Incentive Program

Life Insurance

Short- and Long-Term Disability

Business Travel Accident Insurance

Voluntary Accident & Critical Illness Insurance

EAP (Employee Assistance Program)

Retirement Savings Plan

401(k) Saving Planwith generous 5.5% Company match and Immediate Vesting

Time-Off Benefits

Paid Vacation Time

Paid Sick Time

Paid Parental Leave

13 Paid Company Holidays

Other Benefits and Programs

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Financial Wellness Benefit - Smart Dollar

Employee Recognition Programs

Employee Resource Groups

Charitable or Educational Matching Gift Program

Employee Referral Bonus Program

Velcro Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.