Continuous Improvement Manager

Job Title: Continuous Improvement Manager

Location: Smithfield, NC

Company Overview: Aegis Worldwide is a recruiting firm that works exclusively within the manufacturing and engineering space. Our client is a leading manufacturer dedicated to delivering high-quality products to our customers while continuously striving for operational excellence. We pride ourselves on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in all aspects of our business. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to join our team and drive our commitment to continuous improvement in our manufacturing processes.

Position Overview: The Continuous Improvement Manager will play a key role in identifying, developing, and implementing strategies to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance quality throughout our manufacturing operations. This position will involve working closely with cross-functional teams to analyze processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and lead initiatives to implement changes that drive positive results.

Responsibilities:

1. Strategy Development: Develop and implement a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy aligned with the company's goals and objectives.
2. Process Analysis: Analyze existing manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
3. Kaizen Events: Lead and facilitate Kaizen events and workshops to engage employees in process improvement initiatives.
4. Lean Manufacturing: Apply lean principles and methodologies to streamline processes and eliminate waste.
5. Root Cause Analysis: Conduct root cause analysis to identify underlying issues and develop effective solutions.
6. Performance Metrics: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor and measure the effectiveness of improvement initiatives.
7. Training and Development: Provide training and guidance to employees on continuous improvement methodologies and tools.
8. Change Management: Implement change management strategies to ensure successful adoption of new processes and practices.
9. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, quality, and supply chain, to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
10. Project Management: Lead and manage improvement projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and achievement of objectives.
11. Continuous Learning: Stay current with industry best practices, trends, and technologies related to continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in engineering; Master's degree preferred.
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with a focus on continuous improvement.
3. Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
4. Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
5. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and strategically.
6. Effective leadership and facilitation skills, with the ability to motivate and engage cross-functional teams.
7. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate with employees at all levels of the organization.
8. Project management experience, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage timelines, and deliver results.
9. Change management experience, with the ability to drive organizational change and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
10. Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.