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.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Operations, or related field and 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 processes such as Continuous flow, set up reduction, pull systems, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), and 5S practices.

• 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.
• Reviews / measures progress on improvement at scheduled monthly review meetings.
• Leads as facilitator of plant improvement teams.
• Identifies inefficiencies, analyzes workflows, and implements improvements to boost productivity.
• Leads Lean, Kaizen, 5S, and Six Sigma projects to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Collects and interprets performance data to identify opportunities, track metrics, and report on project status.
• Mentors and provides training on CI techniques, new procedures, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
• Partners with departments to align improvement initiatives with company and plant goals.
• Conducts activities to reduce cost and improve operational efficiencies.
• Increases product quality and reliability by utilizing plant cadence and CI principles.
• Drives culture changes toward proactive problem solving by utilizing Lean activities.
• Provides education and mentoring on Lean processes and principles.
• Ensures open communication throughout the plant by keeping management updated on project status and ensuring coordination of Lean activities.
• Manages the development and maintenance of methods and systems for measuring to ensure project goals, objectives, and metrics are being met and maintained.
• Creates metrics, goals, and objectives to drive accountability throughout the manufacturing facility.
• Leads the implementation of Lean programs from inception to completion.
• Manages the planning, facilitation and completion of Lean projects to support cost reduction objectives.
• Evaluates employee performance and ability to understand and apply Lean principles.
• Monitors activity level of CI teams and informs management of additional support needed to achieve desired results.
• Models operational excellence and visibly demonstrates leadership/change management behaviors.
• Utilizes visual management tools to drive employee empowerment and engagement.

• 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.
• Interpers…