Continuous Improvement Manager

Kerry Group•Melrose Park, IL

30d

About The Position

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or a related field.
5–7 years of experience in similar roles within manufacturing environments, supporting operational excellence, continuous improvement, or process‑focused functions.
Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, with hands‑on application of Lean tools such as value stream mapping, standard work, 5S, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Solid understanding of TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) principles and their application to equipment reliability and operational performance.
Proven experience in project management and change management, with the ability to lead cross‑functional initiatives and sustain improvements.
Demonstrated skill in process development, including identifying inefficiencies, defining standards, and implementing productivity improvements.
Advanced problem‑solving skills, using data‑driven approaches to identify root causes and implement effective corrective actions.
Track record of driving business performance improvements across safety, quality, service, and cost metrics.

Responsibilities

Support the development of lean manufacturing processes; continuous improvement, standard work, problem solving, value stream mapping, training and employee involvement.
Lead, teach and coach employees at all levels on lean manufacturing processes.
Facilitate the development of and maintain the site implementation plan for the lean manufacturing operating system.
Drive lean training and implement a lean toolkit utilizing PDCA; value stream mapping; quick changeovers; Kaizen, problem solving, 5S, etc.
Lead continuous improvement events resulting in employee skill and knowledge development and KPI performance improvements.
Using tracking and reporting systems, prepares plans, drives performance, and assures timely completion and achievement of product/process quality and savings goals.
Identifies barriers to success and solicits help from leadership when needed.