Manager, Engineering - Continuous Improvement

It’s a great time to join Velcro Companies!

Summary of Position Responsibility:

This position is responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives, fostering operational excellence and innovation across the organization. The position will implement Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints to optimize production, resources, and performance, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, achieve measurable results aligned with strategic goals, and create a high-performing organization committed to quality, safety, and competitiveness.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, instill the principles of Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints throughout the organization, and encourage innovation to identify opportunities for adopting new technologies and process improvement.
• Develop company specific Continuous Improvement Training Tools and Methodologies
• Plan and execute a structured improvement roadmap, optimizing organizational processes and resource utilization by incorporating lean manufacturing methodologies, Six Sigma techniques, and Theory of Constraints principles.
• Utilize data 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.
• Organize and lead cross-functional teams in Kaizen events, identifying process inefficiencies, eliminating waste, and implementing improvement solutions across all manufacturing sites.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process performance and evaluate the success of improvement initiatives. Provide regular reports to senior management.
• Work closely with various departments, including production, engineering, quality, and supply chain, to ensure the seamless implementation of improvement projects.
• Collaborate with HR and training teams to deliver continuous improvement training programs, enhancing employee skills, and fostering a culture of problem-solving and innovation. Encourage and support continuous learning and professional development for employees within the organization to promote a culture of improvement and growth.
• Ensure continuous improvement efforts comply with all safety regulations and company policies, emphasizing the importance of a safe working environment.
• Stay informed about industry best practices and advancements, conduct benchmarking, and apply relevant strategies to maintain a competitive edge in the textiles manufacturing sector.
• Effectively communicate improvement progress, results, and upcoming initiatives to all stakeholders, including senior management, teams, and employees, fostering transparency and support.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required.

Non-essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• Other duties may be assigned or required for the performance of this position.

Knowledge & Experience (Minimum Job Qualifications):

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations management, or a related field with relevant experience.
• 5 years of progressive and diversified 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.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma and/or Theory of Constraints is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate and lead Kaizen events, drive process improvement, and achieve measurable results.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with teams at all levels.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Experience in driving cultural change and fostering a mindset of continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of textiles 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.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required (10% or less)

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING

Fostering a culture where people thrive—safely, purposefully, and with opportunity. At Velcro USA Inc., we are committed to creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. We offer competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package, and generous time-off to meet the diverse needs of our workforce. Our culture encourages advancement and provides opportunities for both personal and professional development.

Safety is a core value at Velcro USA Inc. and an essential part of every role. We are dedicated to maintaining a safe, healthy work environment through strict adherence to our Global Safety Rules and our goal of achieving Zero Injuries of Any Kind (ZIAK). Employees are expected to complete required safety training, use personal protective equipment (PPE), report unsafe conditions, and follow protocols for fall protection, lockout/tagout (LOTO), hot work, and confined spaces. Together, we foster a culture of prevention, accountability, and care.

Health and Welfare Benefits:

Medical and Prescription Coverage (HSA and HRA Options)

Dental Coverage

Vision Coverage

Flexible Spending Accounts

Award Winning Wellness 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 Plan with 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.