Senior Process Improvement Specialist

Kennesaw State University is a public institution with growing enrollment and global reach, offering more than 190 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to over 50,000 students. Our entrepreneurial spirit, high-impact research, and vibrant culture make us an employer of choice in the University System of Georgia.

Primary work locations: Kennesaw campus (1000 Chastain Road NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144) and Marietta campus (1100 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta, GA 30060).

About the Role

Serves as a subject matter expert in process improvement, collaborating with leaders and cross-functional teams to foster the university's culture of operational improvement. Works with senior leadership to oversee projects, validate outcomes, coordinate teams, and implement new or revised processes. Manages improvement projects and supervises team members as needed, while facilitating the creation and documentation of policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates with campus leaders to identify process improvement opportunities and develop responsive plans.
• Leads cross-functional teams through the process improvement journey, balancing interests and resources.
• Provides consultation on other Organizational Effectiveness (OE) team projects, offering guidance on process improvement elements.
• Conducts comprehensive business process reviews to pinpoint areas for improvement using frameworks like DMAIC.
• Tailors process improvement approaches to align with client needs and available resources.
• Creates and delivers documentation of new or revised processes at the conclusion of projects.
• Supports process implementation by providing or developing training on new or revised procedures.
• Identifies metrics to measure process efficacy and provides evidence of improvements or additional needs.
• Promotes OE services through presentations, training, and workshops on process improvement and documentation.
• Proposes innovative business and technical solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer/student experience.
• Investigates and identifies opportunities to establish standard procedures and best practices within the industry.
• Acts as a subject matter expert, sharing industry and trade best practices.
• Oversees all process improvement projects, tracks project plans, collaborates with project leads, and provides monthly reports to senior management.
• Ensures the success of process improvement projects, intervening as necessary to adjust.
• Supports the creation of policies and procedures that foster continuous improvement.
• Educates and trains in process management methodologies, problem-solving, and prevention techniques.
• Conducts special studies and coordinates projects to improve processes and practices at Kennesaw State University.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in business or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.
• At least one of the following certifications (or ability to obtain within one year of hire):
  • Yellow Belt in Lean, Six Sigma, or Process Management Professional Certification
  • Project Management Certification
• Three years of experience in process improvement, including managing large-scale projects, applying lean quality improvement methodologies, and collecting and analyzing project data.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree from an accredited institution in a related field.

Skills

• Ability to adopt a consultant mindset, providing expert advice and innovative solutions.
• Strong knowledge of process improvement principles and tools.
• Skilled in acting as a change agent, driving and facilitating organizational improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem-solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management, and presentation skills.
• Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (e.g., Microsoft Office suite).
• Strong attention to detail and follow-up skills.
• Strong customer service skills and phone/email etiquette.

Pay

The budgeted salary range is $69,280 - $83,400 per year, with offers based on relevant experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 13 paid holidays per year.
• Vacation and generous retirement plans.
• Tuition waiver.
• Wellness options.

For more details, visit KSU Benefits.