Lean Value Stream Leader Drive Waste Reduction, Team

Overview

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Value Stream Leader to join our growing team.

The Value Stream Leader is responsible for increasing the ratio of value to non‑value and eliminating waste of the overall supply chain from start to finish for a defined product family; and for ensuring the value stream produces a quality product in a safe and cost‑effective manner, that meets the production schedule and cost specifications.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Creating an environment where employees feel valued, challenged and empowered by evaluating performance and potential of each employee and providing appropriate coaching.
• Analyzing production performance and implementing process improvements to minimize downtime, reduce material and labor requirements, and lower overall cost per case of our products while maintaining a continuous improvement environment aligned with the SQDCPI pillar of Lean Leadership.
• Lead the team through the IWS Phase journey.
• Manage and improve results to achieve the Compelling Business Need.
• Communicate line, department, and plant direction to teams to gain buy‑in and alignment.
• Develop and lead the execution of 90‑Day Plans to eliminate losses using IWS tools.
• Lead line DDS to set priorities and allocate resources.
• Own the Clean Inspect Lubricate DMS for the line(s).
• Own the Defect Handling DMS for the line(s).
• Own the Incident Elimination DMS for the line(s).
• Lead issue resolution to root cause on the floor of chronic stops.
• Coach Shift Team Leaders in the shift exchange DDS.
• Coach operating teams on the use of IWS tools (e.g., IPS, 6W2H, why‑why).
• Perform health checks and take appropriate actions to improve system health if necessary.
• Define and agree on targets and development objectives with direct reports in line with skill matrices and frequently review and provide feedback on progress.
• Interface with planning, materials supply management and QA.

• Bachelors or Associate Degree in business management or equivalent experience.
• Lean, Six Sigma certifications are a plus.
• Prior Value Stream or Supervisor experience in a manufacturing environment (5+ years preferred).
• Prior experience in TPM or Autonomous Maintenance fundamentals preferred.
• Prior experience in developing high‑performing teams.
• Prior experience in managing IWS preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of GMPs, HACCP and OSHA regulations.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills for coaching, developing and performing employee reviews, including disciplinary actions.
• Leads by example, demonstrating all job functions and consistently enforcing all company policies.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Excellent communication skills, including oral and written presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and drive change management.

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy‑loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well‑being:

• PTO package including vacation, wellness, and pay‑it‑forward time off.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 401(k) with company match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country.
• Annual bonus potential and merit‑based increases.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Annual well‑being subsidy.
• 20 weeks maternity & 12 weeks paternity leave options.
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement.
• Tuition‑free college program or free continued education (BA, Masters, etc.).
• Modest monthly candy allotments (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos).
• 2021‑2025 NKY Magazine Best Workplace in Northern Kentucky recognition.

Join the Sweet Life by applying today!

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non‑discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Cincinnati