Continuous Improvement Manager

Responsibilities

• Implement and sustain the continuous improvement strategy across farming and processing operations.
• Ensure CI initiatives align with organizational goals and serve as a strategic partner to site leadership.
• Lead large-scale improvement projects focused on cost reduction, waste elimination, efficiency gains, process streamlining, and quality enhancement.
• Manage industrial engineering projects and process optimization projects, including new equipment and process introductions.
• Identify and prioritize top savings opportunities and track measurable results.
• Coach and develop CI Champions and project leaders to build internal CI capability.
• Facilitate Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other CI training sessions and workshops for teams at multiple sites.
• Analyze workflows and performance data to identify trends, risks, and data-driven improvement opportunities.
• Maintain a visible presence at farming and processing sites to support projects and frontline problem solving.
• Act as a trusted advisor to leadership teams to drive operational excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field; masters degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or Process Optimization roles, including 4+ years in manufacturing, food processing, agricultural, or other asset-intensive environments (e.g., livestock, dairy, grain).
• Leverage Lean Six Sigma Green Belt; Black Belt preferred.
• Demonstrate ability to deliver measurable performance improvements and cost savings in complex operations.
• Show expert proficiency in Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced problem-solving methodologies.
• Master command of statistical tools (SPC, DOE, regression), root cause analysis methods (5 Why, Fishbone, FMEA), and detailed process mapping.
• Ability to analyze large data sets, derive insights, build KPIs, and translate findings into actionable solutions.
• Show familiarity with safety, quality and compliance requirements in manufacturing and agricultural settings.
• Show proven track record delivering measurable improvements in cost, quality, yield, and throughput.
• Show ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.
• Show strong facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to train and coach on CI methods.
• Show experience working in matrixed, multi-site environments.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel up to 25%.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with ERP systems and analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Exposure to industrial engineering, equipment optimization or maintenance and reliability strategies (TPM, RCM).
• Familiarity with digital transformation and automation enabled process improvement.

Working Conditions

• Occasionally lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 30 pounds, such as files, materials, or equipment.
• Regularly sit, stand, and walk within an office environment and occasionally within field or shop settings.
• Frequently use hands and fingers to operate computers, keyboards, phones, and other standard office equipment.
• Occasionally reach, bend, or stoop to access files, storage areas, or equipment; limited climbing or balancing may be required during infrequent field or facility visits.
• Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically to exchange information and coordinate activities.
• Have adequate vision for office and field related tasks, including near and distance vision, depth perception, peripheral awareness, and the ability to adjust focus as needed.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required when working in designated shop or field areas and will be provided in accordance with applicable laws and company policy; compliance with PPE requirements is mandatory when applicable.
• Travel by vehicle may be required to visit company locations, field sites, or equipment facilities.
• Occasional after hours or off schedule work may be necessary to support critical business operations or systems.