Manager, Continuous Improvement

CooperCompanies•Henrietta, NY

12d

About The Position

Responsible for driving significant process optimization and improvement projects throughout the facility. Identifies, oversees and prioritizes all aspects of complex projects that directly improve quality and business performance along with tracking operational deficiencies. Responsible for management, co-ordination and completion of projects by performing a variety of tasks that include setting deadlines, assigning responsibilities, monitoring progress and summarizing results. Develops and deploys standardized best practice methodologies. Provide leadership and engineering support to drive improvements in material and information flow, packaging, picking and shipping efficiency, cycle time, lead time, labor utilization, costs and quality in a distribution and secondary packaging environment.

Requirements

Warehouse management systems (WMS) experience preferred.
Proficiency with Microsoft Suite; including Project, Excel and Powerpoint.
Solid understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.
Possess excellent written and verbal communication, solid presentation and facilitation skills.
Strong ability to lead, coach and train cross-functional personnel.
Strong analytical skills coupled with a creative and open mind towards alternative methods.
Possess a collaborative style to work efficiently throughout the organization.
Be highly organized and diligent with follow-through.
Be capable of working independently as well as in a team environment.
Present a professional and positive presence while interfacing with multiple disciplines.
Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently without losing efficiency.
Proven ability to lead and keep project teams on schedule and within budget.
Normal warehouse and office environment with some exposure to dust, heat and cold.
Must be willing to travel as needed (1-2 times annually).
Minimum of five years process excellence, engineering and continuous improvement experience.
Preferably in a distribution and packaging environment.
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field is required.

Nice To Haves

Masters degree is a plus.
Project management, six sigma and lean certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

Creates, executes and manages project work plans in support of business objectives.
Leads project teams to drive process optimization by applying lean, six-sigma and project management tools.
Coordinates with other departments to identify and prioritize projects to achieve operational excellence.
Manages resourcing and day-to-day operational aspects of improvement projects for timely completion.
Identifies and recommends opportunities for waste reduction throughout the facility.
Collects, analyzes and summarizes data to quantify systemic improvement opportunities.
Supports process re-engineering efforts to address specific business requirements.
Seeks out best practices, latest technologies and implements them accordingly.
Conducts monthly reviews of ongoing projects to ensure timely execution.
Utilize technical expertise and leadership skills to identify and support process improvement activities.
Utilizes a wide range of engineering, lean, and six sigma tools and techniques.
Partner with senior management to continually develop and revise our strategic technology roadmap.
Partner with global communities to leverage and develop technology awareness and capabilities.
Partner with systems analysts and specialists to support systems improvements and continuity.
Develop and maintain distribution models and simulation protocols for improvement initiatives.
Assist in the development of operational procedures and guidelines.
Assist in a wide range of facility, operations and quality performance audits.
Continually seek out opportunities to increase customer satisfaction.
Facilitate problem solving and process improvement.
Inspires team members to pursue excellence, attain goals and achieve their fullest potential.
Build working relationships throughout the business and interact with shop floor supervisors, hourly employees and plant management to meet objectives.
Provide oversight for the internship program.
As required hires, discharges, evaluates, and disciplines employees in accordance with current personnel policies; including performance management and performance improvement plans.
Responsible for overall staffing, planning, training, and employee relations to achieve business objectives and key performance indicators.
Responsible for supporting SOP and FDA requirements while promoting a safe work environment.
Perform additional duties as requested.