Operations Manager; Continuous Improvement

Operations Manager (Continuous Improvement) Join to apply for the Operations Manager (Continuous Improvement) role at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

Operations Manager (Continuous Improvement) - Shelbyville, KY - Onsite

Make Your Mark. Shape Your Future.

We’re the world’s largest tool company. With nearly 60,000 professionals globally, we create products for brands such as DEWALT®, CRAFTSMAN®, CUB CADET®, STANLEY®, and BLACK+DECKER. We’re driven by innovation, the Industry 4.0 Initiative, and a commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability.

The Job:

• Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of managerial or leadership experience.
• Strong technical knowledge of manufacturing operations.
• Experience in production scheduling and planning.
• Proven proficiency in lean and continuous improvement.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong quantitative and analytical abilities.
• Managerial courage and strong interpersonal skills.
• Safety‑first focus, followed by quality.
• Builds team culture proactively.
• Operates with an ownership mindset.
• Effective conflict management and resolution skills.
• Detail oriented, self‑assured, tactful, and supportive.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficient computer skills, including MS Excel, Access, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of Six Sigma and Kaizen techniques.
• Knowledge of SAP systems preferred.

Responsibilities:

As the Operations Manager, you’ll direct and control all elements of manufacturing for assigned value streams while staying within capital and budget limits. You will be accountable for safety, production costs, and efficiency.

• Coordinate planning and organize manufacturing procedures to meet production and delivery schedules, maximizing labor, skills, and manufacturing capabilities.
• Recommend and implement procedures to resolve manufacturing problems such as repairs, maintenance, tooling, cost reductions, manpower planning, employee relations, quality control, and production planning.
• Partner in the facility’s planning process, ensuring robust short‑, mid‑, and long‑term plans to optimize shop‑floor efficiency and achieve 95%+ service level.
• Maintain positive relationships with department managers, employees, customers, suppliers, and the community to enhance the company’s image.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives on the shop floor and across the business, driving Lean, SPX (Stanley Performance Excellence), and cost‑saving projects.
• Ensure key manufacturing metrics and KPIs are tracked and drive appropriate responses.
• Collaborate with HR to administer policies and ensure personnel meet expectations.
• Maintain quality standards and respond to quality issues with sustainable corrective actions.
• Work with engineering and product teams to ensure manufacturability of new products, machine specifications, capital requirements, project timelines, and production launches.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans in line with forecasted demand.
• Mentor, coach, and engage the team, providing timely performance feedback and supporting development.
• Foster a positive, creative, and teamwork‑oriented culture on the facility floor.
• Drive the strategic roadmap to achieve breakthrough performance in working capital, quality, delivery, cost, continuous improvement, and growth.
• Execute additional duties as assigned.

Details:

You’ll receive a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits plan, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) with company match and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Paid time off, vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Discounts on Stanley Black & Decker tools and partner programs.

And More:

• Grow:
  Explore multiple career paths within a global company of over 20 brands.
• Learn:
  Access learning resources, Lean Academy, and an online university.
• Belong:
  Experience a respectful, inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives.
• Give Back:
  Contribute to local and global volunteerism and sustainable business practices.

What’s more, you’ll share in the pride of empowering makers, doers, and protectors worldwide. Join us to help shape the…