Manager of Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Manager of Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence to lead the organization's continuous improvement strategy by driving Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing initiatives, the Self-Improvement Program (SIP), and cross-functional business improvement projects. This role partners with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Safety, HR, and Executive Leadership to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and profitability through systematic process improvement. The position champions a culture of continuous improvement while ensuring compliance with company standards, operating procedures, confidentiality requirements, and ethical expectations.

Responsibilities

• · Develop and execute the company's Continuous Improvement strategy across all functional areas.
• · Lead Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence initiatives including Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, TPM, Standard Work, Visual Management, and structured problem solving.
• · Facilitate cross-functional improvement projects that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
• · Identify, prioritize, and manage a portfolio of strategic improvement projects.
• · Lead cost reduction and waste elimination initiatives while improving operational reliability and profitability.
• · Serve as administrator and leader of the Self-Improvement Program (SIP), including internal auditing program for QA systems, execution, follow-up, and continuous improvement of the program.
• · Oversee corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to ensure timely completion and sustained effectiveness.
• · Develop and monitor KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics to measure improvement progress.
• · Present project status, savings, trends, and improvement opportunities to leadership.
• · Coach and train employees, supervisors, SIP auditors, and Key Element Owners on Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• · Partner with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Safety, and HR to implement sustainable process improvements.
• · Support annual review and improvement of quality standards, procedures, and continuous improvement systems.

Qualifications

• · Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, Operations Management, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• · 3 years of leadership experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing, or a related manufacturing environment.
• · Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and ISO-based quality systems.
• · Strong project management, analytical, communication, coaching, and organizational skills.
• · Ability to influence cross-functional teams and lead change without direct authority.

Success Measures

• · Deliver measurable annual cost savings and productivity improvements.
• · Complete the annual SIP audit schedule on time.
• · Improve operational KPIs such as OEE, waste reduction, and corrective action closure rates.
• · Develop internal continuous improvement capability through coaching and training.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person