Beverage Cost Optimization Manager

At Niagara, we’re looking for Team Members who want to be part of achieving our mission to provide our customers the highest quality most affordable bottled water.

Consider applying here, if you want to:   

• Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment with a chance to make an impact.   
• Develop lasting relationships with great people.   
• Have the opportunity to build a satisfying career.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages for our Team Members.

Beverage Cost Optimization Manager

The Beverage team is a division overseeing Niagara’s service of beverage products to retail and branded customers.  We leverage our strong analytical and execution competencies, detailed knowledge of the product and market, our ability to build and maintain positive relationships and our knowledge of Niagara’s core competencies to help grow Niagara’s beverage business.

The Beverage Cost Optimization Manager will drive operational and financial success across the beverage network. This position will focus on the success of the beverage business by working with and influencing cross-functional teams to ensure quality, service and other success metrics are met, operational projects are implemented and sustained, and effective change management is achieved to meet the company’s strategic and financial goals. Working across the functional leadership of the organization, this position will design, implement and lead strategic improvement projects to elevate operational efficiency, overall service, and profitability.

Essential Functions

• Lead and manage cost optimization initiatives across the beverage network to enhance operational efficiency and drive improved financial performance by utilizing prior project management skills and / or by applying Lean Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, operations, quality, finance, sales, and supply chain) to implement and sustain operational projects supporting quality, service, and profitability goals.
• Design and execute strategic improvement projects to reduce costs, enhance service levels, and drive long-term growth in the beverage division.
• Influence and support change management efforts to ensure the successful adoption of new processes and initiatives across the organization.
• Conducts analysis of operational and financial data to identify opportunities for improvement and develop actionable strategies.
• Maintain a strong understanding of product performance, market trends, and Niagara’s core competencies to inform project design and decision-making.
• Build and foster positive relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to promote collaboration and ensure project success.
• Utilize strong analytical skills to assess complex business problems, forecast impacts, and make data-driven recommendations.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to quality, service, cost, and operational performance.
• Provide senior leadership with insights and recommendations to achieve the beverage division’s strategic and financial goals.
• Ensure all projects align with Niagara’s overall business objectives and are executed within defined timelines and budgets.
• Lead programs and projects using project management tools and techniques.
• Travel Requirements: 10 - 20%

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • 6 Years  – Experience LEAN/Six Sigma within Supply Chain
  • 6 Years  – Experience in Project Management
  • 6 Years  – Operational management experience in Supply Chain or Manufacturing

• Preferred Qualifications:
  • 10+ Years  – Experience LEAN/Six Sigma within Supply Chain
  • 10+ Years  – Experience in Project Management
  • 10+ Years  – Operational management experience in Supply Chain or Manufacturing
  • Certified Lean Manager

Competencies

• Hands-on experience using Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement Methods
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to influence without authority
• Experience in business transformation and process improvement roles using proven problem solving/continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience with change management and influencing organizational culture change 
• Advanced MS Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Green Belt Certified preferred

This position embodies the values of Niagara’s LIFE competency model, focusing on the following key drivers of success:

• Lead Like an Owne