Continuous Improvement Manager - Essentia

The CI Manager will optimize operational efficiency by analyzing processes, eliminating waste, and implementing Lean methodologies.  They will lead cross-functional teams, facilitate Kaizen events, provide Lean training, and identify key metrics to drive cost reductions and sustainable improvements at our Lytton Iowa facility.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Operations, or related field and experience.

Experience

• 5 years’ proven experience in manufacturing or operations with a focus on continuous improvement and Lean principles.

• 5 years' related experience to CI and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Strong knowledge of Lean processes and methodologies within a manufacturing environment.

• Experience with Value Stream Mapping, Facilitating Kaizen events and knowledge of lean tools and process such as: Continuous flow, set up reduction, pull systems, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) and 5S practices.  

JOB DUTIES:

• Heavily involved with projects, processes and performance reports, data, and analysis.

• Works in partnership with local plant leadership and plant improvement teams, to identify and implement Lean principles to improve Quality, Cost, Safety, Delivery, and Morale.

• Organizes and leads CI meetings with plant team and peers.

• Review/ measure progress on improvement at scheduled monthly review meetings.

• Lead facilitator of plant improvement teams.

• Identify inefficiencies, analyze workflows, and implement improvements to boost productivity.

• Lead Lean, Kaizen, 5 S and Six Sigma projects to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

• Collect and interpret performance data to identify opportunities, track metrics, and report on project status.

• Mentor and provide training on CI techniques, new procedures, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

• Partners with departments to align improvement initiatives with company and plant goals.

• Conduct activities to reduce cost and improve operational efficiencies.

• Increase product quality and reliability by utilizing plant cadence and CI principles.

• Drive culture changes toward proactive problem solving by utilizing Lean activities.

• Provide education and mentoring on Lean processes and principles.

• Ensure Open communication throughout the plant by keeping management updated on Project status and ensuring coordination of Lean activities.

• Manage the development and maintenance of methods and systems for measuring to ensure that project goals, objectives and metrics are being met and maintained.

• Create metrics, goals, and objectives to drive accountability throughout the manufacturing facility.

• Lead the implementation of Lean programs from inception to completion.

• Manage the planning, facilitation and completion of Lean projects to support cost reduction objectives.

• Evaluate the performance or ability of employees to understand and apply lean principles.

• Monitor activity level of CI teams and inform management of additional support needed to achieve desired results.

• Model operational excellence and visibly demonstrate leadership/change management behaviors.

• Utilize visual management tools to drive employee empowerment and engagement.

COMPETENCIES:

• Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.

• Design - Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Applies design principles; Demonstrates attention to detail.

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

• Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities.

• Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

• Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emo