Continuous Improvement Manager

LAKEVIEW FARMS, LLC
POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION: Continuous Improvement Manager
REPORTS TO: Engineering Manager
FLSA CLASS: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:
Work in partnership with plant management to prepare and conduct process improvement events. Lead instruction on the use of process improvement tools, assist in the development of implementation action plans, lead instruction on the use of process improvement tools, manage team work amongst all associates, facilitate team decisions, and conduct follow-up. The Continuous Improvement Manager serves as a coach to operating managers and production associates on methods to effectively integrate performance improvement activities into his or her daily workload.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Execute lean vision and strategy by serving as a champion of facility initiatives to deliver continuous improvement, culture transformation, waste reduction and/or cost savings.
• Work directly with the VP of Manufacturing, Plant Manager, and other plant functional leaders to coordinate and lead improvement initiatives resulting in quality, throughput, cost, and profit opportunities.
• Facilitate and coordinate selected Kaizen events
• Track and report key metrics on lean activities throughout the plant.
• Assist in the development of projects and implementing changes where the project relates to Lean thinking.
• Serve as a mentor and coach for the development of lean facilitator and leaders
• Provide lean employee training and facilitate correct use of lean tools.
• Adhere to all company Policies and Procedures and actively promotes Continuous Improvement and its activities and services to other.
• Present, facilitate, and lead assigned process improvement events using methods of culture-appropriate team building, team energizing, data gathering and analysis, problem solving, project management and presentation.
• Seek and evaluate process improvement and Lean information, materials, and methods to match specific organizational needs as specified by management; adapt these to use the execution of process improvement events.
• Develops reports of overall Continuous Improvement activities, including accomplishments, participation, projected activities, and anticipated needs.
• Identify needs and assist in training opportunities.
• Coordinates with related departments and functions to assure appropriate information flow and understanding of overall process improvement direction.
• Facilitates line improvement, including efficiencies, yields, and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES
• Participate in manufacturing meetings to discuss continuous improvement opportunities.
• Actively role model all continuous improvement methods.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with Operations, Managers, Supervisors and employees.
• Keep the Vice President of Operations up to date on matters relating to, continuous improvement.
• Special projects as required.

QUALIFICATIONS / OTHER REQUIREMENTS
• Food manufacturing experience preferred
• 3-5 years of successful Continuous Process Improvement experience
• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, ability to handle diverse situations and manage multiple projects.
• A good grasp of critical thinking skills to successfully effect change and drive results.
• Ability to understand gap analysis and develop key process improvement initiatives and methods.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred

EDUCATION / CERTIFICATION
• BS in Engineering or Business (preferred)