Plant CI Manager

Ardagh Metal Packaging USA • Chicago, IL

101d • $93,900 - $140,900

About The Position

The purpose of the Plant Continuous Improvement Manager role is to lead the deployment of the Ardagh Metal production system (AMPS) at the site level, driving measurable improvements in operational performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This role is responsible for identifying and supporting performance improvement opportunities—such as ODM reduction, spoilage control, cost optimization, and productivity gains—through the practical application of AMPS tools and methodologies. The plant CI Manager works closely with plant leadership and regional CI teams to embed best practices and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Key responsibilities include supporting Kaizen events, facilitating structured improvement activities, and enabling cross-functional collaboration to drive sustainable, data-driven results. Acting as a change agent within the plant, the role plays a central part in translating continuous improvement efforts into sustainable operational excellence and financial performance at the site.

Requirements

• University Degree in Engineering, Advanced Mathematics or Statistics
• Certified in Six Sigma Black Belt
• Project Management skills applying both Lean and Six Sigma
• Proficient in MS Office tools
• Strong understanding of Production Systems
• Process and data driven mindset with strong ability to understand the plant's technologies & processes
• Proficient in data analysis and CI tools
• Strong knowledge and demonstrated application of Lean/Six Sigma methodologies
• Comfortable engaging with all levels of Management including Regional leadership teams
• Ability to interact and network with all internal- and external stakeholders, exceptional relationship-building skills and concise communicator able to build a compelling vision or direction
• Willingness to learn and teach new methodologies and tools
• Strong presentation, motivation and good listening skills
• Leader and team builder, effectively dealing with cross cultural business environment
• Good problem-solving, team-working and conflict management skills
• Able to deal with ambiguity and able to resolve problems in that environment
• Analytical thinking
• Flexible and resilient
• Change management
• Fluent in spoken and written English

Responsibilities

• Lead the rollout and ongoing management of the Ardagh Metal Production System (AMPS) at the plant level, ensuring alignment with regional CI strategies, global standards, and plant priorities.
• Deliver AMPS implementation through the use of global models, standard templates, and site-specific use cases to achieve targeted performance improvements.
• Conduct AMPS assessments, audits, and maturity evaluations to track progress and ensure compliance with established standards.
• Develop and maintain the plant's CI roadmap in collaboration with the Regional CI Director.
• Coordinate AMPS initiatives, prepare assessment reports, and support plant leadership in implementing actions for performance improvement.
• Identify, lead, and support plant level CI projects to improve OEE, reduce downtime, increase throughput, minimize waste, and optimize productivity.
• Utilize structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., A3, DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone) to identify root causes and deliver measurable improvements.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and cross-functional projects focused on achieving operational gains.
• Monitor and track CI project outcomes to ensure sustainability and alignment with plant and business goals.
• Link CI efforts to cost reduction initiatives, tracking cycle times, savings, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Deliver AMPS and CI training across all levels of the plant workforce—from frontline operators to plant leadership.
• Coach managers, supervisors, and teams on Lean tools, daily management systems, and performance tracking methods.
• Identify AMPS-related training needs and provide Lean and Six Sigma training as appropriate.
• Develop and mentor internal CI champions to build site-level ownership and long-term capability in continuous improvement.
• Act as a change agent within the plant, promoting the adoption of Lean thinking and a structured culture of continuous improvement.
• Provide management and oversight for all plant CI activities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and a sustained CI mindset.
• Facilitate cultural transformation through consistent messaging, role modeling, and reinforcement of AMPS principles in day-to-day operations.
• Partner with the Regional CI Director and Plant Manager to align plant CI initiatives with broader regional strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional plant leadership teams to support strategic priorities, operational excellence, and cultural change.
• Facilitate sharing of best practices across sites, contributing to regional and global learning.
• Provide regular reporting on CI project progress, KPIs, cost savings, and AMPS maturity to plant and regional stakeholders.
• Promote standardization and harmonization of CI tools and practices in alignment with corporate guidelines.
• Support site readiness for AMPS assessments and ongoing CI evaluations.
• Participate in benchmarking activities to evaluate plant performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Contribute to the Ardagh Best Practices initiative by identifying, implementing, and sharing high-impact practices.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage
• Opportunity to earn a medical/prescription premium reduction by completing a qualified wellness activity
• 401(k) Plan

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree