What are the responsibilities and job description for the Continuous Improvement Manager position at CraftMark Bakery, LLC?
Job Title: Continuous Improvement Manager
Department/Team: Continuous Improvement
Work Location: On-site, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (with flexibility to support night shift training and projects as needed)
Primary Purpose
Identify and implement process improvements across the bakery while fostering a culture of continuous improvement through collaboration, training, and data-driven decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in lean manufacturing, creative problem-solving, and the ability to drive collaboration across diverse teams.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
(Other duties may be assigned)
- Lead and collaborate on improvement projects across the bakery and organization, ensuring alignment with operational goals.
- Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify opportunities for operational improvements using data-driven insights.
- Apply lean methodologies and problem-solving techniques to drive cost savings, quality improvements, and efficiency gains.
- Assess impact and prioritize high-value improvement projects.
- Guide teams through project planning, execution, and measurement of results.
- Lead change management efforts, engage stakeholders, and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
- Train and mentor plant teams in lean tools, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement best practices.
- Support process standardization and documentation to ensure consistent operational results.
- Report project status and impact to senior leadership using project management and business intelligence (BI) tools.
- Facilitate Continuous Improvement events including Six Sigma projects and Kaizen events.
- Support adoption and ongoing use of RedZone as a productivity and engagement platform.
Reporting Structure
Reports to: Senior Director of Continuous Improvement
Direct Reports: None
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of experience leading Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing initiatives in a production or operations environment.
- Strong knowledge of Lean principles, Six Sigma tools, and root cause problem-solving.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Ability to work on-site with flexibility to support multiple shifts as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
- Green Belt or Black Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma.
- Experience developing reports in Power BI.
- Experience using RedZone or other digital performance platforms.
Success Metrics
- Hourly baker engagement in CI activities
- Number and impact of projects completed
- Training sessions delivered and participation levels
- Tangible business improvements tied to safety, quality, delivery, and cost
Growth Potential
This is a high-visibility, high-impact role that offers strong developmental opportunities. The Continuous Improvement Manager will gain broad exposure to all operational areas of the business, strengthening leadership and business acumen for potential advancement.
