Manager, Continuous Improvement (CI)

Position Overview

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager reports to the Site General Manager and is responsible for leading the deployment of the site’s Operational Excellence strategy. This role provides leadership and direction to site and service-center resources driving Lean Six Sigma

methodologies, cultural transformation, and measurable cost and performance improvements.

As a key member of the Site Leadership Team (SLT), the CI Manager partners with cross-functional leaders to align operational excellence initiatives with business strategy, digital transformation efforts, and long-term performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and align all Operational Excellence initiatives with site and business strategic objectives
• Deploy and sustain a standardized Operational Excellence framework across the site, ensuring alignment with regional and global standards
• Champion Lean Six Sigma methodologies across the organization, including education, cultural enablement, and transformation initiatives
• Lead business case development and analysis for proposed CI projects; prioritize initiatives based on organizational impact and strategic need
• Facilitate site-level Operational Excellence / Lean Steering Team activities to achieve targeted financial and operational results
• Own and continuously improve site Operational Excellence processes, metrics, and tools, ensuring standard work alignment
• Partner with regional and global CI leadership to share best practices and provide feedback on improvement proposals
• Support alignment of Industry 4.0 and digital tools with operational excellence initiatives
• Lead engagement in site-wide CI and continuous improvement programs
• Develop, coach, and mentor CI and operational resources while reinforcing leadership behaviors, accountability, and organizational values

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline is required
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in operations, supply chain, manufacturing, or technology-focused environments
• Demonstrated leadership in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, or Lean transformation roles
• Strong experience leading cross-functional initiatives with measurable financial and operational impact
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification (ASQ, BQF, Motorola, GE, or equivalent)
• Project Management certification (PMI or equivalent)
• Experience deploying standardized OpEx systems across complex or multi-functional manufacturing environments

Ideal Background

• Senior CI / OpEx leader operating at the site leadership level
• Comfortable influencing at the executive and plant-floor levels
• Proven ability to drive cultural change, not just run projects
• Experience in regulated, high-mix, or complex manufacturing environments a plus