Manager, Engineering - Continuous Improvement

Velcro USA•Manchester, NH

33d

About The Position

This position is responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives, fostering operational excellence and innovation across the organization. The position will implement Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints to optimize production, resources, and performance, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, achieve measurable results aligned with strategic goals, and create a high-performing organization committed to quality, safety, and competitiveness.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field with relevant experience.
5+ years of progressive and diversified experience.
5+ years management/leadership experience.
Analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
Proven experience in leading continuous improvement initiatives within a manufacturing industry, preferably in textiles, plastics, or related sectors.
Demonstrated ability to facilitate and lead Kaizen events, drive process improvement, and achieve measurable results.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with teams at all levels.
Analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
Experience in driving cultural change and fostering a mindset of continuous improvement.
Ability to achieve results through other people and departments (influence without authority) with good presentation and communication skills.
Strong multi-tasking capabilities, able to prioritize and manage different projects.
Problem solving skills and the ability to apply them in a team context.
Travel domestically and internationally as required (10% or less)

Nice To Haves

Certification in Lean Six Sigma and/or Theory of Constraints is highly desirable.
Knowledge of textiles manufacturing processes and supply chain management is an advantage.

Responsibilities

Champion a culture of continuous improvement, instill the principles of Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints throughout the organization, and encourage innovation to identify opportunities for adopting new technologies and process improvement.
Develop company specific Continuous Improvement Training Tools and Methodologies
Plan and execute a structured improvement roadmap, optimizing organizational processes and resource utilization by incorporating lean manufacturing methodologies, Six Sigma techniques, and Theory of Constraints principles.
Utilize data analytics and insights to strengthen decision-making and prioritize improvement projects with the most significant impact.
Collaborate with operational teams to identify improvement opportunities in processes, productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Guide the implementation of sustainable improvement initiatives.
Organize and lead cross-functional teams in Kaizen events, identifying process inefficiencies, eliminating waste, and implementing improvement solutions across all manufacturing sites.
Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process performance and evaluate the success of improvement initiatives.
Provide regular reports to senior management.
Work closely with various departments, including production, engineering, quality, and supply chain, to ensure the seamless implementation of improvement projects.
Collaborate with HR and training teams to deliver continuous improvement training programs, enhancing employee skills, and fostering a culture of problem-solving and innovation.
Encourage and support continuous learning and professional development for employees within the organization to promote a culture of improvement and growth.
Ensure continuous improvement efforts comply with all safety regulations and company policies, emphasizing the importance of a safe working environment.
Stay informed about industry best practices and advancements, conduct benchmarking, and apply relevant strategies to maintain a competitive edge in the textiles manufacturing sector.
Effectively communicate improvement progress, results, and upcoming initiatives to all stakeholders, including senior management, teams, and employees, fostering transparency and support.
Travel domestically and internationally as required.