Continuous Improvement Leader

Position Title: Operational Excellence Leader

Summary:
This role supports organizational improvement efforts by guiding teams through structured problem-solving and process optimization initiatives. The facilitator works across departments to promote efficiency, train staff in improvement methodologies, and ensure the sustainability of performance enhancements.

Reporting & Collaboration:

• Reports to: Senior Operations Leader
• Supervisory Duties: None
• Interfaces with: Operations teams, front line staff, administrative personnel, and cross-functional departments

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Lead enterprise-wide improvement efforts using methodologies such as process mapping, rapid improvement events, total productive maintenance, workplace organization, visual controls, and flow optimization.
2. Facilitate team-based improvement sessions focused on production efficiency, equipment changeovers, and streamlined workflows.
3. Contribute to cost reduction and operational reliability projects by applying structured problem-solving techniques to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
4. Participate in daily operational routines, observe work areas, and support frontline problem-solving and idea generation.
5. Assist in aligning production and supply chain processes to improve inventory management and throughput.
6. Coach team members in improvement tools and techniques, monitor project progress, and establish metrics to evaluate long-term impact.
7. Identify performance gaps relative to industry benchmarks and lead initiatives to improve service delivery, resource utilization, and workforce productivity.
8. Build collaborative relationships across all levels of the organization to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
9. Document and distribute meeting summaries for selected improvement sessions.

Required Knowledge & Skills:

Knowledge of:

• Process improvement tools and techniques (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma)
• Data analysis, performance metrics, and operational reporting
• Project planning and execution methodologies
• Regulatory and compliance standards relevant to operations

Skills & Abilities:

• Facilitate team-based problem-solving and improvement activities
• Manage multiple projects with cross-functional teams
• Communicate effectively and influence through data-driven insights
• Analyze operational challenges and develop actionable solutions
• Develop and track performance indicators for improvement initiatives
• Proficient in productivity and project management software

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Operations, Business, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 5-7 years of experience in a production or operations environment with demonstrated success in process improvement
• Formal training or certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies preferred
• Experience in identifying and mitigating project risks to ensure successful outcomes

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Primarily based in a production or operational setting
• May handle sensitive or confidential information
• Occasionally required to travel for meetings, training, or site visits
• May encounter time-sensitive or seasonal business demands
• Physical demands include:
  • Frequent lifting of light materials (up to 10 lbs)
  • Regular use of computer and communication tools
  • Occasional standing, walking, and driving