Continuous Improvement Manager

Job Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and support to CI project leads to ensure successful project completion
• Develop and increase portfolio impact of CI initiatives, focusing on efficiency gains in current workflows and work processes
• Deploy aligned resources to CI initiatives
• Partner with the Operations organization for opportunity mining, resource prioritization, and overall Ketjen CI portfolio development
• Train and mentor group members, peer resources, and the broader Ketjen organization to utilize CI tools and principles, including Lean Six Sigma
• Develop reporting and portfolio tracking for quick visibility to program status for COO, CEO, and board members

Typical Job Duties

• Leading Improvement Projects: Manage and lead complex Lean Six Sigma projects aimed at reducing waste, improving quality, and enhancing efficiency
• Use DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology to structure projects
• Data Analysis: Analyze data to identify root causes of problems and opportunities for improvement
• Use statistical tools and software to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
• Process Mapping: Create detailed process maps to understand current workflows and identify areas for improvement
• Use tools like value stream mapping to visualize processes
• Change Management: Facilitate change management initiatives to ensure smooth implementation of process improvements
• Work with stakeholders to overcome resistance and ensure buy-in
• Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the impact of improvement projects
• Ensure that improvements are sustained over time
• Collaboration: Work closely with teams to integrate Lean Six Sigma methodologies into daily operations
• Collaborate with other departments to align improvement efforts with organizational goals
• Build and maintain positive team relationships and communications with diverse global initiative owners across multiple locations
• Reporting: Prepare and present detailed reports on project progress, outcomes, and impact to senior management
• Communicate findings and recommendations effectively
• Lead project & program management execution for strategic, complex, cross-functional initiatives to support the prioritized initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or master’s degree) in Project Management, Engineering, Business Administration, Management, or other related technical/business field or the equivalent experience is required
• Minimum of five years' experience in project management in an industrial setting which demonstrates growth in capabilities and responsibilities
• Proficiency in LEAN principles
• A minimum of 7 years total experience in chemical or related manufacturing industry
• Demonstrated experience successfully coaching and mentoring indirect functional teams and other project team members
• Direct people leadership experience
• Experience implementing projects with technical components required

Preferred Qualifications

• Project Management Certification
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification and minimum 2 years direct full-time experience on completing multiple Six Sigma projects
• Minimum 2 years demonstrated successful experience working with global, cross-functional teams via influential leadership
• Previous experience in managing multiple concurrent projects & programs in an agile approach