Continuous Improvement Manager - Laurel Plant

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Date: Jul 30, 2026

Company: Milliken and Company

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations.

Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at  and on Facebook , Instagram and Linked In .

We are hiring a Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager for our Gainesville, FL plant. This role leads the implementation of Lean Six Sigma methods at a single chemical process facility. It is a key position responsible for driving operational excellence, nurturing a continuous improvement culture, and achieving measurable business outcomes. The CI Manager oversees the improvement projects, provides Lean Six Sigma training, and promotes a culture of ongoing enhancement while working with a network of CI professionals organization-wide.

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, passionate about excellence, and eager to find and implement improvements that benefit the site and the Fine Chemicals division.

ESSENTIAL

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lean Six Sigma Deployment:
  Lead the implementation and sustainment of Lean Six Sigma initiatives at the site, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and best practices.
• Training & Capability Building:
  Work with corporate resources to deliver foundational Lean Six Sigma training (e.g., Yellow Belt, Green Belt) to site personnel.
• Improvement Portfolio Management:
  Identify, prioritize, and manage a portfolio of CI projects, ensuring timely delivery, effective resource allocation, and measurable impact on safety, environmental performance, quality, cost, and productivity. Actively run critical CI projects for the site.
• Coaching & Mentoring:
  Participates in project teams and coaches teams and individuals in Lean Six Sigma tools, problem-solving, and change management. Works with managers to develop CI talent within the site.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Influence and engage stakeholders at the site to drive buy-in, overcome resistance, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Performance Measurement:
  Track and report on CI metrics, project outcomes, and overall site performance improvements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education:Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Experience:5+ years in a chemical process or manufacturing environment, with a proven track record of leading CI initiatives.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  
  • Deep knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies.
  • Strong analytical and numerical skills; proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools.
• Leadership & Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  
  • Exceptional influencing, coaching, and facilitation skills.
  • Ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Strong stakeholder management and conflict resolution abilities.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Change Management: Experience driving organizational change and fostering a CI culture.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Recognized as a high-potential employee with leadership aspirations.
• Experience in regulated environments (e.g., chemical, pharmaceutical, or food industries).
• Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Collaborat…