RoleProvide high-quality process support and technical leadership to mill operations, resulting in improved product quality, increased productivity, and reduced operating costs.
Key Accountabilities- Lead, develop, and manage continuous improvement (CI) projects and the project pipeline to achieve or exceed annual savings targets for the Stevens Point Plant.
- Track and report savings for all approved and implemented CI projects in A-Track.
- Monitor savings for completed CAPEX projects to ensure financial goals and project objectives are achieved.
- Lead and support CI initiatives across the mill through data analysis, events, and project execution.
- Mentor and coach Process Engineers through the DMAIC methodology and targeted improvement initiatives.
- Conduct A-Gap/R-Gap analyses twice per year (June YTD and December final), including data analysis and development of waterfall presentations.
- Support the annual budgeting process through detailed A-Gap/R-Gap analysis and data insights for key spend areas (PM Operations, PS&D Packaging Materials, Maintenance/Repair Materials, and contractor spend).
- Partner with departments to identify and scope CI opportunities.
- Maintain accurate documentation for CI projects, including scope, justification, and savings methodology.
- Partner with Finance to support initiatives requiring CI expertise (e.g., HFM reporting, ad hoc analysis).
- Serve as the Centerlining (KVA) Champion:
- Mentor, train, and coach KVA resources.
- Ensure the KVA model is effectively implemented and address any gaps.
- Evaluate product improvement and cost optimization opportunities by designing and executing trials, including trial plans and reports.
- Develop project scopes, savings estimates, and project charters for improvement initiatives.
- Provide technical and analytical support to key departments.
- Lead problem-solving efforts and drive data-based decision making.
- Support other Ahlstrom Wisconsin facilities with training, data analysis, and special projects as needed.
- Develop strategies to improve work processes and systems, ensuring measurable value creation.
- Participate in a rotating weekend coverage schedule.
- Work safely and promote a culture of safety.
RequirementsEducation & Experience- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Pulp & Paper Science, or a related field, plus 10+ years of technical or production supervisory experience in a mill environment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Green Belt and Black Belt certification preferred; relevant project experience required.
Core Competencies- Demonstrated ability to lead projects and influence organizational change.
- Strong mentoring and coaching capabilities with a focus on developing others.
- Proven problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Effective communication skills (verbal, written, and presentation).
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in team environments and build strong peer relationships.
- Results-driven with strong decision-making capability and sound judgment.
- Skilled in process management and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Ability to navigate ambiguity and adapt to changing priorities.
- Action-oriented with the ability to make timely decisions.
- Strong technical and functional expertise.
- Ability to understand and apply various improvement methodologies appropriately.
- Proven ability to implement new concepts and drive adoption.
- Ability to balance customer, business, employee, and supplier needs.
- Strong data analysis skills, including process, financial, and supply chain data.
- Excellent organizational and planning capabilities.
