Operational Excellence and PMO leader

Solenis is a leading global provider of water and hygiene solutions. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, cleaners, disinfectants, and state-of-the-art monitoring, control and delivery systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact, and create cleaner and safer environments.

About the role

The Operational Excellence & PMO Leader will report to the Suffolk Plant Manager, driving Lean Six Sigma initiatives while providing structured project management leadership. This role accelerates the site’s progression from Manufacturing 1.0 to Manufacturing 4.0 by improving SQDIP (safety, quality, delivery, inventory and people) performance, strengthening processes, and coaching front-line and mid-level leaders in operational discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean Six Sigma roadmap deployment, including VSM, Kaizen, RCA, standard work, 5S, SMED, TPM, and visual management.
• Serve as the site’s continuous improvement strategist for throughput, waste elimination, quality improvement, and cost savings.
• Coach Operations Managers and production teams to develop CI capability and problem-solving discipline.
• Provide PMO leadership across CAPEX and OPEX projects using project charters, governance cadences, KPIs, and RACI structures.
• Partner with engineering, maintenance, quality, and supply chain to manage cross-functional project portfolios.
• Contribute to digital transformation efforts aligned with Manufacturing 4.0.
• Facilitate daily, weekly, and monthly performance review structures.
• Support culture-building efforts around safety, accountability, and operational rigor.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred (Engineering, Operations, Industrial Technology, Business).
• 3–5+ years in manufacturing, operations, CI or project management.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt preferred; Green Belt acceptable with progress toward Black Belt.
• Experience leading Kaizens and structured problem-solving.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and data-driven decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Danaher, ITW, Parker Hannifin, Honeywell, or other OpEx-driven organizations.

Success Profile

The ideal candidate is hands-on, structured, and able to influence without authority. This person is a disciplined project executor, strong communicator, credible shop-floor leader, and consistent coach who drives sustainable improvements.

Work Environment

• Primary location: US-Suffolk, Virginia.
• Some travel for meetings or cross-manufacturing site training/assistance.
• Scheduled weekly hours: 40.
• Setting: large chemical manufacturing location.
• Work environment: office or plant, with ambient conditions including traversing multiple levels (stairs or ladders). May require additional PPE depending on task conditions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401K.
• Numerous opportunities for professional growth and development.

Pay

The expected compensation range for this position is between $107,500.00 and $157,663.00 plus discretionary bonuses. The exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and other factors permitted by law.