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Jobs · Management · Michigan

Manager of Continuous Improvement

Detroit Manufacturing Systems (DMS) · Auburn Hills, MI · 2 wk ago
ManagementFull-time

Position Summary

The Manager, Continuous Improvement leads the deployment and sustainment of continuous improvement (CI) initiatives across the organization. This role is responsible for driving measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and morale through the application of Lean, Six Sigma, and Daily Management System (DMS) principles. The position partners with cross-functional leaders to build capability, standardize processes, and embed a culture of continuous improvement that delivers sustainable operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and execute continuous improvement strategy aligned to business objectives

  • Drive Kaizen events, problem-solving activities, and rapid improvement workshops

  • Identify and prioritize improvement opportunities across operations and support functions

  • Ensure implementation, tracking, and sustainment of improvement actions in alignment with CI processes (submission, review, approval, implementation, and feedback)

  • Support the rollout and maturity of Daily Management Systems across sites

  • Reinforce standard work, KPI alignment, visual management, and accountability routines

  • Partner with site leadership to ensure consistent execution and follow-up of action plans

  • Monitor performance metrics and escalate gaps to drive corrective actions

  • Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving tools (A3, 5 Why, root cause analysis)

  • Coach teams in data-driven decision-making and waste elimination methodologies

  • Facilitate cross-functional problem-solving and continuous improvement initiatives

  • Train and mentor leaders and teams on CI tools, behaviors, and principles

  • Develop internal capability to create self-sustaining CI culture

  • Promote employee engagement in idea generation and continuous improvement participation

  • Track and report CI performance metrics (KPIs, savings, implementation rates, etc.)

  • Ensure alignment of initiatives to enterprise priorities and value creation

  • Provide visibility to leadership on progress, risks, and opportunities

  • Partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain to drive improvements

  • Facilitate communication and best practice sharing across sites

  • Ensure alignment with enterprise systems, policies, and continuous improvement standards

Qualifications

  • Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Manufacturing, or related field; 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or operational environment; 2+ years of experience leading continuous improvement initiatives or teams; Experience in automotive or high-volume manufacturing preferred

  • Certifications: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt preferred

  • Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: Strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies; Experience with Daily Management Systems, Kaizen, and visual management; Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without authority; Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; Excellent communication and facilitation skills; Ability to translate strategy into actionable execution plans

Key Success Measures

  • Improvement in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity metrics

  • Kaizen idea generation, implementation, and sustainment rates

  • DMS maturity progression across assigned areas

  • Engagement and capability growth of site leadership and teams

Working Conditions

Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment; Regular interaction with production teams and leadership; Travel to plant locations as required

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