Cost Optimization Manager
About The Position
Join Reynolds Consumer Products and Drive Your Career across a world of opportunities! We are passionate about achieving results and have fun winning as a team! Reynolds Consumer Products currently has an opportunity for a Cost Optimization Manager at their corporate headquarters in Lake Forest, IL. The Cost Optimization Manager leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of cost optimization routines across the organization. This role is responsible for identifying cost-saving opportunities, establishing standardized performance routines, and embedding sustainable cost discipline within business operations. The Manager partners cross-functionally with operations, supply chain, finance, and engineering teams to ensure that cost optimization initiatives deliver measurable financial impact and align with strategic business goals. You will have the opportunity to Make Great Things Happen!
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
- 7+ years of experience in cost management, operations finance, or continuous improvement leadership roles.
- Proven experience leading cost-reduction or productivity improvement initiatives in a multi-site organization.
- Up to 25% travel required.
- Strong analytical and financial modeling skills.
- Proficiency in ERP and analytics tools (SAP, Power BI, Tableau, Excel).
- Knowledge of manufacturing cost structures, supply chain, and productivity metrics.
- Familiarity with standard work and performance management systems.
- Strong business acumen and strategic thinking.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills across all levels.
- Results-oriented with a focus on measurable outcomes.
- Collaborative leadership and ability to drive cultural change.
- High attention to detail with strong project management discipline.
Nice To Haves
- MBA preferred.
- Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or operational excellence programs (certification preferred).
Responsibilities
- Design and execute the company’s cost optimization framework and routine management processes to drive operational efficiency and margin improvement.
- Establish and standardize cost management routines—daily, weekly, and monthly—focused on cost visibility, performance tracking, and accountability.
- Partner with business units to analyze cost drivers and identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve productivity, and enhance asset utilization.
- Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting dashboards to monitor cost trends, forecast accuracy, and initiative progress.
- Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other process-improvement methodologies to sustain cost reduction initiatives.
- Lead cost review cadences and ensure financial tracking mechanisms are transparent and auditable.
- Work closely with plant and functional leaders to align cost optimization projects with business priorities.
- Promote a culture of ownership and cost consciousness through structured communication, coaching, and recognition.
- Benchmark and share cost optimization best practices across regions, plants, and functions.
- Leverage digital tools, analytics, and automation to enhance cost analysis and streamline reporting routines.
Benefits
- Wisely Pay Card – so you can get your money fast
- Comprehensive Benefits Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
- Wellness Program
- 401K
- PTO
- Tuition Assistance
- Employee Referral Program
- Life Insurance
- Employee Resource Program
- Paid Parental Leave
- Adoption Assistance
- Infertility Coverage
- Enhanced Musculoskeletal Wellness Program
- Role is eligible for 10% annual incentive provided the business meets financial goals and the individual meets their performance goals, subject to plan administration guidelines.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
