Operations Excellence Manager

Associated Materials•Ennis, TX

About The Position

The Operations Excellence Manager leads, implements, and sustains a culture of continuous improvement across manufacturing operations, with a focus on vinyl, composite, and metal plants. The role drives measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost through Lean methodologies, while engaging and influencing teams throughout the organization. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, Vinyl, Composite & Metal, the manager works in a multi-plant environment to develop an end-to-end understanding of the business. The initial focus is the Ennis, Texas vinyl plant, where the manager will lead operational excellence initiatives, improve efficiency, and teach employees. The position includes a structured rotation through production, maintenance, supply chain, quality, and engineering, with increasing ownership of daily plant performance. It also provides a development path intended to prepare the manager for future Plant Manager responsibilities, with mentorship from the VP of Operations and experienced Plant Managers and exposure to the products, processes, and practices of the company's 10-plant network.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations, business, or a related technical field.
At least 7 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with multifunctional exposure.
Proven success in operations management or similar roles.
Demonstrated experience leading Lean or continuous improvement projects with measurable outcomes.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
Advanced knowledge of process improvement tools such as Kaizen, 5S, and VSM, and proficiency with data analysis tools.
Effective leadership and ability to build rapport and drive team excellence; hands-on, resilient, and collaborative approach.
Excellent communication and facilitation abilities across all organizational levels.
Results-oriented mindset focused on delivering high-quality outcomes.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree.
Experience in metal, vinyl, or window manufacturing.

Responsibilities

Gain expertise in production, maintenance, supply chain, quality, and engineering through a structured rotation.
Take increasing ownership of daily plant performance and drive results in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people metrics.
Partner with Plant Managers and the VP of Operations to lead and execute strategic projects aligned with corporate goals.
Support Hoshin Kanri deployment by translating high-level objectives into actionable plant-level plans.
Lead and support Lean and continuous improvement initiatives; facilitate Kaizen events, implement standard work, establish daily management systems, and reduce waste.
Conduct root cause analysis to identify systemic issues and implement corrective actions.
Track and report project progress, quantifying improvements in cost savings, productivity, and throughput.
Supervise, mentor, and coach supervisors, team leaders, and staff to develop leadership capabilities and promote accountability and engagement.
Participate in budgeting, financial analysis, and cost control initiatives.
Ensure operations meet quality standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
Establish, track, and report KPIs to evaluate improvement projects and sustain results.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, working with cross-functional teams to manage change and overcome resistance.
Use advanced problem-solving methods, including Root Cause Analysis, to address complex manufacturing challenges.