Operational Excellence Manager

Downers Grove, 3333 Finley Rd, Downers Grove, Illinois, United States of America

Job Summary

The Operational Excellence Manager is responsible for driving the successful implementation of operational excellence initiatives across the organization. This role partners closely with site leadership and cross-functional teams to identify productivity improvements ideas through embed continuous improvement principles, standardize processes, and sustain performance gains. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on leader who can influence change, build capability, and deliver measurable business results.

This position requires strong technical Lean Manufacturing, Operational, Engineering, and hands‑on leadership skills.

Job Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Lead deployment of continuous improvement programs (Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, etc.)
• Support implementation of tiered management systems, daily management, and performance routines.
• Identify gaps in current processes and develop action plans to close them.
• Act as a change champion, ensuring alignment and buy‑in across all levels of the organization.
• Develop and execute change management plans, including communication and engagement strategies.
• Coach leaders and frontline teams on new ways of working.

Capability Building

• Train and mentor teams on operational excellence tools and methodologies
• Build internal capability to sustain improvements (problem solving, root cause analysis, standard work)
• Facilitate workshops, kaizen events, and training sessions.

Performance Management

• Establish KPIs and visual management systems to track progress.
• Monitor and report on implementation success, including productivity, quality, safety, and cost metrics.
• Drive accountability through structured follow‑ups and governance routines.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams
• Support alignment between site‑level initiatives and broader organizational strategy.
• Share best practices across sites to accelerate adoption.
• Foster a culture of accountability, discipline, and continuous improvement.
• Reinforce behaviors aligned with operational excellence principles.
• Recognize and promote successes to sustain momentum.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience in a manufacturing environment
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, Engineering or operations roles
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) preferred
• Experience with TPM, Daily Management Systems, and Tiered Accountability structures preferred
• Proven experience leading change initiatives and driving measurable improvements
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement tools
• Demonstrated ability to influence without authority and lead through change
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and coaching skills
• Data‑driven mindset with strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities
• Ability to work in fast‑paced, dynamic environments
• Travel – must be willing to travel 70%+
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Excel, and Power Point

The pay range for this full‑time, salaried position is $97,210-$145,814/year. Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job‑related skills, and relevant education or training. The position is eligible for a discretionary annual incentive based on company and individual performance. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment.