Rapid Improvement Leader

Rapid Improvement Leader – Job Description

Please note – position is located in Jenks, OK. Kimberly-Clark relocation benefits available! Kimberly-Clark is the parent of iconic brands such as Huggies, Kleenex, Cottonelle, Scott, Kotex, Poise, Depend, and Kimberly-Clark Professional. The role is part of the company’s initiative to create Better Care for a Better World.

The Rapid Improvement Leader will drive operational transformation across NA Manufacturing sites by executing Rapid Improvement projects. The role blends Lean Six Sigma methodology with cross‑functional collaboration to deliver significant impact to manufacturing processes, organizational capability, and a high-performance culture.

• Lead execution of multiple Rapid Improvement projects within NA MFG sites that deliver exceptional value ($2MM annual impact+) and drive overall operational transformation.
• Utilize Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques with extreme rigor and discipline to deliver project goals in a 3–5‑month timeframe following Enterprise standards.
• Lead and coordinate a cross‑functional team including plant operations, engineering, maintenance, Value Stream, logistics, quality, finance, digital and Enterprise Supply Chain to drive delivery of project goals.
• Use project management tools and skills to document progress, activity plans, resources and overall status.
• Lead stakeholder management meetings throughout the duration of the projects including steering team and executive team communications, influencing up to the VP level across Supply Chain functions.
• Build capability within Plant and Value Stream teams to sustain results after the project is completed.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to mill operations, including development of visual management tools, tiered scorecards and Leader Standard Work.
• Collaborate with digital capabilities to identify and drive technology improvement solutions that enable operational efficiency and improved asset performance.
• Encourage and facilitate knowledge and best‑practice sharing across facilities/functions, documenting solutions within P2030.
• Possess or be working toward LSS Black Belt certification and maintain an active LSS project.
• Serve as a subject‑matter expert on all aspects of LEAN manufacturing.
• Provide onsite support at NA manufacturing sites during project execution with an expectation of ~75% onsite travel to ensure on‑time completion.
• Lead a cross‑functional onsite team, including support from 1–2 Staff Transformation Leaders.
• Typically assigned to 2–3 Rapid Improvements per year.
• Report to the NA Manufacturing Senior Transformation Leader.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in supply chain, engineering or related field and 10+ years of related experience.
• Possess or be working toward LSS Black Belt certification.
• Have direct or indirect manufacturing/operations, supply chain and/or finance experience, plus knowledge of organizational structure.
• Significant experience in Engineering, Operations, Lean Manufacturing, and Reliability; very familiar with Lean, CI, OPEX, LSS tools and theory.

• 5+ years’ experience in a high‑speed industrial manufacturing environment or plant experience.
• Experience in change management in large, complex organizations and coaching/mentoring at all levels to drive collaboration across teams and functions.

• Normal scheduled hours may vary based on the need to support 24/7 operations.
• Travel expected to be in the 75% range with heavy onsite plant support within the region; some individuals may require minimal travel if projects are located at a local site.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment; some shift work may be required.

• Salary range: $127,600 – $157,600 USD.
• Eligible for a target bonus and a comprehensive benefits suite, including 401(k) and profit‑sharing plan.
• Base pay determined by location, role, skills, performance and experience.

Kimberly-Clark offers a comprehensive benefits suite that includes health, dental, vision and life insurance; a 401(k) with company match; a profit‑sharing plan; paid time off, holidays and an…