Continuous Improvement Manager

Overview

This range is provided by Connect Search, LLC. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

$/yr - $/yr

Annual Bonus

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Our client, a growing food manufacturing organization, is seeking a Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager. You will be a key driver in transforming operations by fostering a culture of efficiency, accountability, and operational excellence. This role requires a hands-on leader who is comfortable working directly with teams on the plant floor while influencing senior leadership to adopt modern processes and performance standards.

By leveraging Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, the CI Manager will reduce waste, enhance quality, and create scalable systems to support growth.

• Optimize Processes:
  Lead improvement initiatives across production, packaging, and distribution to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and increase throughput.
• Standardize Operations:
  Develop and implement Lean and Six Sigma practices, including SOPs and comprehensive training programs to drive consistency and quality.
• Modernize Workflows:
  Partner closely with production, QA, supply chain, and R&D teams to introduce automation and other modernization projects.
• Leverage Data:
  Analyze KPIs and operational metrics to identify performance trends and develop actionable strategies for sustainable improvement.
• Drive Cultural Change:
  Engage and train employees at all levels, empowering teams to take ownership of CI practices and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
• Support Strategic Projects:
  Lead initiatives focused on cost reduction, automation, and sustainability to align with long-term business goals.
• Lead by Example:
  Act as a visible, approachable leader who thrives in a traditional manufacturing environment while championing change.

• Strong background in operations or process engineering, ideally within food manufacturing, bakery production, or other fast-paced, high-volume environments.
• Proven success implementing Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI tools to deliver measurable improvements.
• Experience training and mentoring frontline employees, with the ability to build trust and engagement at every level of the organization.
• Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving skills and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP, Cashmere, Oracle, or Net Suite.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulatory requirements (FSMA, SQF, HACCP).
• Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable challenging the status quo in a legacy manufacturing setting.
• Prior consulting experience or multi-site leadership ("road warrior" style) is a plus.

• Seniority level:
  Mid-Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full-time
• Job function:
  Industrial/Operations
• Industries:
  Food and Beverage Manufacturing

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