Primary Purpose 

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager is responsible for the design, leadership, training, coaching and execution of lean improvements.  The CI Manager leads and manages the deployment of Lean CI principles, methodologies, tools and metrics utilizing Toyota Production System and Shingo Prize methodology.  Delivers hands-on coaching and problem solving to associates in lean methodology and tools to eliminate waste in all functions.  Overall responsibility for coordinating and leading team members cross-functionally and with multiple facilities to meet or exceed company business objectives.

Major Responsibilities  

- Supports production operations in development and execution of lean continuous improvement plans and kaizens.  Facilitates lean CI kaizens to improve site metrics and deliver strategy deployment goals.

- Trains, develops, motivates, monitors, and leads a team of facility lean professionals with an emphasis on championing the goals, objectives and implementation plans relative to the lean assessment needs and strategic direction.

- Develops, deploys, and trains standard Generac CI tools, methodologies, standards, practices and processes.

Requirements 

Education 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent

Work Experience 

•   5 years of lean continuous improvement implementation experience in a manufacturing environment using Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System, or Shingo Prize methodology

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities 

•  Strong project leadership experience with a diversity of team skills

• Ability to set the agenda (based on business needs and priorities) and bring others with you

• Demonstrated ability to influence senior management, teams and individuals across a variety of settings

• Demonstrated problem-solving ability, including the ability to identify creative and effective solutions and the ability to ask the right questions and help frame logical conclusions.

• Proven experience in collaborating with multiple sites and functions to drive common solutions

• Strong organization, prioritization, and time management skills with the ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities

• Sound business acumen operating in high mix, low volume and high volume, low mix production environments

• Demonstrated personal flexibility in approach and ideas

• Strong interpersonal communication skills

Preferred Job Requirements 

Education 

•  Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems)

Certification / License 

Work Experience 

•  Line operations experience working in a production or supply chain environment: Production supervision, materials, sourcing, distribution, logistics, planning, quality, or service

• Experience working with international companies and in matrix organizations

• Experience in demand flow principles and plan for every part (PFEP) methodology

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities 

•   Demonstrated understanding of financial measurements and goals in the lean enterprise

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

Office Environment (Includes field sales): 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls.  The employee is regularly required to stand and walk.  On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders.  The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel.

DISCLAIMER 

All responsibilities and requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only responsibilities to be performed by an employee occupying this job or position.  Employees must follow any