Continuous Improvement Manager
Responsibilities
Partner with leadership to define future-state value stream maps that support the strategic priorities of the business; support teams to execute the future state and close performance gaps.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement and strengthen CI knowledge and engagement across the CPI Service organization.
Develop, coach, and support a network of CI Practitioners (Tool Champions) to build site capability and self-sufficiency.
Lead Continuous Improvement Roadmap reviews; support event preparation, metrics definition, and follow-through on action plans.
Develop strong working knowledge of SQDCG standards and metrics; strengthen visual management and performance dialogue.
Ensure appropriate onboarding and CI training is provided to new hires; partner with functional leaders to embed standard work and problem solving expectations.
Conduct audits of completed kaizen events and improvement projects to confirm implementation, effectiveness, and sustainability of results.
Obtain internal certification in core CI tools within 24 months (or demonstrate equivalent competency), including Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work for Flow, Problem Solving, and Transactional Process Improvement.
Provide training and manage the certification process to assure long-term sustainability and adoption of CI tools at the site.
Facilitate, lead, and drive lean/kaizen events to address improvement opportunities identified through value stream mapping and operational priorities.
Coach and mentor leaders and teams in CI principles and change management; reinforce disciplined problem solving and standard work.
Work directly with managers to improve transactional and office processes, aligned to value stream priorities and customer needs.
Prepare concise reports and presentations to communicate progress, outcomes, and decisions to stakeholders; maintain an improvement pipeline and benefits tracking.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations, or related service or CI experience.
Demonstrated ability to lead, influence, and motivate at all levels of the organization in a matrix environment.
Advanced data analysis and structured problem-solving skills; ability to translate data into action.
Strong project planning, organization, and prioritization skills; comfortable balancing event work with day-to-day coaching and follow-up.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including facilitation and presentation to diverse audiences.
Experience in Lean / Kaizen / Continuous Improvement as both a team member and team leader (preferred).
Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt (preferred, not required).
High energy and comfort executing multiple initiatives concurrently; bias for action and results.
Able to establish credibility, make sound decisions, and align work to organizational preferences and priorities.
Results- and people-oriented with sound judgment; ability to balance other business considerations.
Willingness and ability to travel up to 20% (as needed).