Continuous Improvement Manager

Company Description

Rumiano Cheese Company is California’s oldest (founded in 1919) family-owned cheese company, dedicated to the manufacture, packaging and distribution of the highest quality cheese, butter, and value-added products. Products are sold across the US, Mexico, and Asia. Rumiano’s focus is providing customers with the utmost service and quality achieved by exceeding expectations in all ways. We have known throughout history that it is in being a good, trusted partner and in working with others that we go the distance. We believe that collaboration and partnership are key to our success, which is why our new initiatives with fellow dairy and plant-based cheese companies, our work with other farmers, cheesemakers, and artisans have only accelerated. Rumiano Cheese Company’s long-lasting success is due to a highly talented team, which has included four generations of the Rumiano family. And Rumiano’s new state of the art facility in Willows provides career advancement opportunities so people can stay here and grow here.

Role Description

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence and efficiency in the packaging plant. This role involves leading initiatives to identify and eliminate inefficiencies, reduce waste, and enhance overall processes. Apply methodologies to analyze data, identify improvement opportunities, and implement sustainable solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, provide training on continuous improvement methodologies, and foster a culture of innovation and efficiency. Ensure that the organization continuously evolves and optimizes their operations for long-term success.

Duties and Responsibilities:

·        Develop and implement a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy aligned with organizational goals. Identify opportunities for efficiency gains, waste reduction, and quality improvement within the packaging plant.

·        Lead cross-functional teams to analyze and optimize existing processes. Implement improvements to streamline workflows, reduce lead times, and enhance overall productivity.

·        Apply methodologies like Lean Six Sigma principles to identify and eliminate process inefficiencies and defects. Provide training and support to team members on these methodologies.

·        Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to identify trends, root causes, and areas for improvement. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and track process performance.

·        Drive a culture of continuous improvement throughout the packaging plant. Implement change management strategies to ensure successful adoption of process enhancements.

·        Collaborate with departmental managers and team members to gather input and insights for improvement opportunities. Foster a collaborative environment that encourages idea-sharing and innovation.

·        Collaborate with Quality management to ensure that continuous improvement initiatives align with quality standards. Implement improvements that positively impact product quality.

·        Collaborate with Production management to ensure training and methodologies are being incorporated into processes. Implement improvements that positively impact throughput.

·        Provide training sessions on continuous improvement methodologies for plant personnel. Develop a skilled workforce capable of sustaining and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

·        Lead and oversee continuous improvement projects from initiation to completion. Monitor project timelines, budgets, and outcomes.

·        Maintain detailed documentation of continuous improvement projects, methodologies, and outcomes. Generate regular reports for management, summarizing progress and achievements.

·        Champion Redzone (production tool)

Qualifications:

●    5+ years in manufacturing operations; 3+ years leading a team (training and mentoring)

●    Experience in process manufacturing, specifically in food (cheese or dairy ideal)

Additional Desired Knowledge:

●    Process improvement experience with a certification in Lean Management Principles preferred

●    Redzone experience

Education:

●    Associate or bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant training and/or experience

Skills:

●    Excellent project management and organizational skills; experience taking a project from start to finish

●    Results-driven and resourceful with flexible problem-solving skills

●    Team player with clear communications skills and a natural collaborator

●    Experience in Microsoft Office applications; knowledge of OSHA and EPA regulations

●    Ability to develop leaders

●    Collaborative

●    Effective communication between departments, and able to communicate with differing personalities

Work Environment:

·        Primarily indoors

·        Production area, climate controlled cool environment

·        Walking

·        Occasional lifting up to 50lbs