Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, or Operations required
3+ years leading Continuous Improvement initiatives
5+ years in high-speed manufacturing, preferably in Food or CPG
2+ years of people leadership experience preferred
Strong project management skills essential
Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP
Technical skills in continuous improvement manufacturing activities
Responsibilities
Oversee and execute improvement action plans based on complexity
Facilitate Lean Six Sigma initiatives to enhance facility performance
Monitor and guide the Maker's Pride Performance System
Teach Continual Improvement techniques to leadership
Foster an engaged work environment among employees
Manage the improvement portfolio and track savings targets
Analyze ERP and plant performance data to drive actionable insights
Benefits
Opportunity to drive cultural change within the organization
Engagement with plant leadership and cross-departmental teams
Hands-on leadership role with direct impact on operations
Focus on professional development through coaching and mentoring
Dynamic work environment with multiple project management opportunities
Full Job Description
Job Summary:
The CI Manager is responsible for driving sustainable Process Improvements and mindset change in the facility by delivering breakthrough results in Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Morale. The CI Manager works closely with plant leadership, CI Directors, and department employees to achieve results. This position requires strong technical, Lean Manufacturing, and hands-on leadership skills to drive cultural change.
Job Duties: Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
Oversee, develop, coach, and/or execute improvement action plans based on size and complexity
Owner, driver, and facilitator of Lean Six Sigma improves to drive improvements within the facility
Driver of Maker's Pride Performance System for the plant; monitoring performance, providing feedback, guidance, and coaching department leaders
Provides and teaches Continual Improvement mindset and techniques to employees in leadership roles
Build an employee engaged work environment
Process owner of the improvement portfolio and savings targets; supporting peers and colleagues to drive performance across entire organization.
Analyze complex ERP and plant performance data to transform opportunities into action
Support Plant Manager to build cultural Lean change throughout the plant
Manage multiple complex projects concurrently
Required Competencies & Knowledge:
Knowledge and experience with ERP (SAP preferable)Possess extensive technical skills and hands-on experience in continuous improvement manufacturing activities
Bias for action, a change agent, challenging the status quo to drive to operational excellence
Excellent problem-solving skills
Accurate, detail-oriented and maintain the utmost confidentiality.
Working knowledge of P&L/financial acumen to identify performance gains and opportunities; supporting their peers to develop plans to correct performance, and track effectiveness of projects.
Ability To:
Effectively communicate with employees, top management, customers, public groups and/or board of directors.
Teach, coach, and mentor team members regarding improvement mindset, practices, and methodologies.
Maintain harmonious working relations with management and employees from all levels and departments.
Leverage resources and share best practices across multiple plants when possible.
Define problems, collect and calculate data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
Work well with others in stressful situations and meet deadlines as necessary.
Work in a fast-paced environment, while at the same time making sound decisions.
Drive change and sustain.
Proficiency In:
MS Office Suite, Excel, and PP Work Environment:
Physical Requirements:
Ability to use and reach throughout the day; hands, fingers, arms, stand, walk, climb and/or balance approximately.
Ability to see, hear and talk.
Ability to work in light to moderate noise levels.
Ability to work across multiple shifts.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree required, preferably in Engineering, Business or Operations.
3+ years' experience in the leading Continuous Improvement Department/function. Production or operations leadership is highly encouraged.
5+ years in a high-speed manufacturing environment. Food or CPG is preferred.
2+ years of people leadership experience is preferred, but influence without authority is needed.
Strong project management experience required.
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About Hearthside Food Solutions
Hearthside Food Solutions is a leading contract manufacturer of baked goods, bars, snacks, and other food products. The company provides a range of services, including product development, packaging, and distribution, and serves customers in the retail, foodservice, and industrial markets. Hearthside Food Solutions operates more than 40 facilities across North America and Europe and has a reputation for delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service. The company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois.
