Principal, Continuous Improvement

Fanatics•Portland, OR

About The Position

The Principal, Continuous Improvement role is responsible for defining and driving the continuous improvement strategy across operations within Fanatics Collect. This role serves as a senior subject-matter expert, leading large-scale, cross-functional transformation initiatives that enhance throughput, quality, cost efficiency, and scalability. Operating with a high degree of autonomy, this role focuses on designing and implementing scalable systems, processes, and operating models. The Principal partners closely with Operations, Product, Technology, and other stakeholders to influence strategy, improve end-to-end workflows, and deliver measurable business impact.

Requirements

8+ years of experience in operations, supply chain, manufacturing, or continuous improvement roles
Proven track record leading large-scale, cross-functional transformation initiatives
Deep expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or related methodologies
Strong systems thinking and ability to design scalable operational solutions
Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders without direct authority
Experience building performance systems and driving adoption across teams

Nice To Haves

Experience in high-volume, process-driven environments
Familiarity with WMS, workflow tools, or operational systems
Experience partnering with Product and Engineering teams

Responsibilities

Strategic Process Transformation Define and drive the continuous improvement strategy across operations
Identify systemic inefficiencies and architect scalable, long-term solutions
Establish standardized operating models, playbooks, and best practices
Program Leadership & Execution Lead complex, high-impact, cross-functional initiatives from concept through implementation
Translate business objectives into structured roadmaps with clear success metric
Drive execution through influence, alignment, and program governance (not direct authority)
Operational Excellence & Performance Systems Design and implement KPI frameworks to measure throughput, quality, cost, and efficiency
Build mechanisms for real-time performance visibility, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement
Establish operating rhythms that reinforce accountability and data-driven decision-making
Cross-Functional Influence & Integration Partner with Operations, Product, and Technology to influence system design, tooling, and automation
Improve end-to-end workflow integration across functions
Drive prioritization of initiatives that unlock efficiency and scalability
Capability Building & Thought Leadership Act as a subject-matter expert in continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.)
Mentor and guide program managers, CI practitioners, and operations leaders
Promote best practices and elevate problem-solving capabilities across the organization
Business Impact Deliver measurable improvements in cost, cycle time, quality, and operational scalability
Enable operational readiness for growth and new business models
Influence long-term operational strategy and transformation efforts