Continuous Improvement Manager

GEORGIA NUT COMPANY•Skokie, IL

1d•$133,000 - $145,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for driving process optimization, efficiency, and cost savings within the manufacturing environment. This role involves mapping and analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies, and setting strategic continuous improvement goals aligned with company objectives. The manager will standardize practices, lead the development and implementation of standards, and deliver training on Continuous Improvement/Lean principles and problem-solving techniques. Key responsibilities also include leading root cause analysis, monitoring KPIs, measuring impact, and reporting progress to senior management. The position requires strong stakeholder engagement and cross-functional leadership to execute improvement projects and ensure smooth implementation across departments.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, operations, or a related field.
5+ years in CI implementation and leadership, process optimization, operations, or business management.
Proficiency in Lean manufacturing techniques, statistical methods, metrology, and process analysis tools.
Cost analysis.
Mentoring and coaching approach.
Strong analytical, problem-solving.
Strong communication and presentation skills; ability to lead change and influence stakeholders.
Hands on approach with a strategic mindset.

Nice To Haves

Lean/Six Sigma certification (e.g., Green Belt, Black Belt) is highly valued.

Responsibilities

Map and analyze workflows, resource and labor utilization, process capability, identify bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies, and identify safety improvement and cost saving opportunities.
Review and update of standards on periodical basis.
Collaborate with leadership to define continuous improvement goals aligned with company objectives.
Ensure the implementation of standard practices across the different business and functional teams.
Lead the development and implementation of standards.
Deliver training on Continuous Improvement/Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, and improvement tools; mentor team members.
Lead root cause analysis sessions and implementation of RCA methodologies across functional teams.
Track KPIs, measure impact (cost savings, productivity gains, defect reduction), and adjust strategies as needed.
Training and skills development.
Work with team leaders to introduce and implement operational review processes and practices, CI principles, tools and methodologies.
Maintain records of improvement activities and present progress to senior management.
Work with operational, risk, and governance teams to align improvement efforts with business strategy and goals.
Lead and execute improvement projects, including change management, training, and tool deployment (e.g., Business and Operation Management solutions, automation tools).
Facilitate and lead teams across departments to embed improvements and ensure smooth implementation.