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 emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.

• Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations, Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills.

• Participate in meetings.

• Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar. Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.

• Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

• Visionary Leadership - Displays passion and optimism; Inspires respect and trust; Mobilizes others to fulfill the vision; Provides vision and inspiration to peers and subordinates.

• Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; Communicates changes

• effectively, builds commitment and overcomes resistance; Prepares and supports those affected by change; Monitors transition and evaluate results.

• Delegation - Delegates work assignments.

• Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong analytical, communication, problem-solving and CI management skills.

• Enthusiastic about CI with the ability to inspire and motivate others.

• Lean Experience required and fully versed in TQM techniques.

• Demonstrate ability to coach individually or in small groups, manage projects and apply conflict management skills.

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.

• Strong multi-tasking capabilities, able to prioritize and manage different projects

• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to apply them.

• Black Belt or Green Belt training preferred and/or equivalent experience.