Continuous Improvement Manager

The primary purpose of the Continuous Improvement Manager is to analyze production utilizing problem solving methodologies, analyze data, train and mentor employees in lean manufacturing and/or Six Sigma, partner with operations leadership, and manage day-to-day operations and provide direction to the functional team.

- Coach, teach, mentor team members, assess results of changed processes, document results via data analysis and written project summaries, communicate results to team members and stakeholders.
- Address production challenges utilizing following problem solving tools to identify root causes and develop appropriate solutions: DMAIC, PDCA, A3, Fishbone, 5 Why's, and VRK.
- Improve production by utilizing the following lean tools: Visual Management, 6S, Eight Wastes, Value Stream Mapping, Spaghetti Diagram, Standardized Work, Leader Standard Work, SMED, TPI, and TPM.
- Drive change utilizing ADKAR Change Management Model.
- Deploy and Lead Kaizen Events.
- Utilize Cook Inc Maturity Model to establish bronze, silver, and gold levels by department to identify level of maturity across organization.
- Develop and track KPI's (key performance indicators).
- Train and mentor employees in tools identified previously to help them to understand, embrace, and utilize these skills to grow a culture of continuous improvement.
- Attend, present, and provide data for meetings on project updates and reviews.
- Lead Continuous Improvement Team and activities in supporting Manufacturing and Engineering Initiatives.
- Partner with Leadership to establish strategic direction and change management initiatives.
- Drive Initiatives that meet and exceed deliverables of Performance Metrics.
- Must maintain all training requirements for the position while seeking out opportunities for continuous development and growth.
- Adhere to the Quality Management System and its processes to meet FDA 21 CFR 820, ISO 13485, and other applicable regulatory requirements.

- Must work and interact effectively and professionally with and for others throughout various levels of the global organization.
- Must strictly adhere to safety requirements.
- Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
- Must maintain company quality and quantity standards.
- Must have effective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative and independent work situations and environments with
minimal supervision.
- Ability to remain calm and receptive in fast paced situations.

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Operations Management or experience of such kind and amount as to provide a comparable background.
- Minimum 10 years leadership experience preferred.
- Demonstrated experience leading change initiatives.
- Training in formal lean management philosophy such as Danaher Lean Management System strongly preferred.
- Minimum 10 years demonstrated experience with Lean, Six Sigma, 6S, or other improvement methodologies preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word/Excel/Outlook; Livelink, Business Objects preferred.
- Ability to understand the overall and detailed functions of a business software application, statistical software such as Minitab is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

- Works under general office environment conditions.
- Utilizes close visual acuity for working with computers and equipment.
- Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, and communicate.
- Occasionally required to lift up to 20 pounds.