Position Summary
The Lean Leader is responsible for identifying and prioritizing Operational Excellence activities across a manufacturing site and leading the execution of all programs and initiatives to build a culture of continuous improvement as aligned to key strategic goals. They will apply the principles of project management, lean manufacturing, and other CI methodologies to support manufacturing operations and improve the outcomes of Oliver's value stream processes, create efficiencies, reduce cost, and increase customer satisfaction.
Primary Responsibilities / Essential Functions
• Lead and execute complex process improvement projects to drive improvements in cost, quality, service, and safety
• Work directly with site leadership to develop multi-year plans and partner with them to track progress.
• Coordinate the strategy development for the site and manage the implementation program of the strategic initiatives in support of the Site Strategic A-3.
• Coach lean process and behavior changes, developing a highly effective Daily Management process focused on tools such as one-piece flow, on demand, zero defects and standardized work. Deploy techniques such as basic problem solving, Kaizen and A3 thinking and tools including Kanban, Value stream mapping, visual management, pull, TPM, SMED and 5S as applicable.
• Lead workshops and projects across the site to engage the employees at all levels
• Lead and execute major process improvement and cost savings projects, to deliver financial results within specified time frames.
• Provide training in the use of CI tools to appropriate levels of the site.
• Coach the front-line supervisors to grow their OpEx knowledge and capabilities. Mentor them to be true agents of change, improving their change management capabilities (tools and behaviors), and ensure rigor around conducting rapid improvement events.
Basic Qualifications
Education:
• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Science or equivalent
Experience:
• 5 years' experience in Manufacturing Operations or Operational Excellence/CI Lean role
Other Requirements:
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and history of optimizing manufacturing processes.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Desire to drive accountability across project teams and cross functional teams.
Preferred Qualifications
Education and/or Experience:
• Lean Manufacturing background or Kaizen Experience
Interpersonal Skills:
• Strong teamwork and problem-solving skills
• The ability to develop, maintain and strengthen partnerships across the organization
• Able to work independently or as member of a team; must be organized and meet deadlines in stressful situations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong active listening skills
• Ability to maintain positive relationships within a team environment; working well with people across the organization to gather information, make decisions, and recommendations to drive improvement
• Ability to deal with a variety of interpersonal styles and personalities in an appropriate and diplomatic manner
Technical Skills
• Strong Microsoft Office skills and experience with ERP and business applications
• Demonstrated ability to follow through on details and enter data into computers systems quickly and accurately
Working Conditions
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 10lbs.
Special Requirements
• Ability to work evenings and/or weekend as needed.
