Continuous Improvement Manager

kdc/one•New Albany, OH

About The Position

kdc/one is seeking a hands-on Lean leader to lead improvement efforts at its Columbus site. The role focuses on eliminating waste, coaching teams, facilitating Kaizens, and using data to achieve sustainable results while building a culture of continuous improvement. The manager will lead improvement initiatives across safety, quality, cost, delivery, and engagement; partner with site leadership on a business-aligned CI roadmap; support equipment reliability and efficiency; and track results to ensure improvements are sustained.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field.
At least 5 years of hands-on Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing experience in a manufacturing environment.
Proven success leading Kaizens, Rapid Improvement Events, and shop-floor improvement activities.
Strong Lean toolkit, including value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, TPM, and problem solving.
A coaching mindset and the ability to influence at all levels.

Nice To Haves

Lean certification.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives that drive safety, quality, cost, delivery, and engagement.
Plan and facilitate Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Events (RIEs), and problem-solving workshops.
Coach leaders and teams in Lean tools, loss analysis, and data-driven decision making.
Create and maintain visual management, standard work, and value stream maps.
Partner with site leadership to build and execute a continuous improvement roadmap aligned with business goals.
Support equipment reliability and efficiency through TPM and maintenance improvement efforts.
Drive employee engagement by making continuous improvement practical, visible, and fun.
Track results, celebrate wins, and ensure improvements are sustained.