Regional Continuous Improvement Leader

Advanced Drainage Systems • Perry, GA

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact. We are seeking a Regional Continuous Improvement (CI) Leader to drive manufacturing excellence across a multi-site operation. This role partners closely with regional and plant leadership to strengthen Lean capabilities, improve operational performance, and build a sustainable culture of continuous improvement. Beyond leading initiatives, this individual serves as a coach, change leader, and facilitator—empowering teams, enhancing leadership capability, and supporting scalable growth across the manufacturing network.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field preferred
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or operations environments
• Demonstrated experience leading Continuous Improvement or Lean initiatives across multiple sites
• Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence methodologies
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities with data-driven decision-making
• Effective leadership coaching and facilitation skills across diverse teams
• Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with experience delivering training
• Ability to influence without authority in a matrixed organization
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office tools

Nice To Haves

• Lean Six Sigma certification preferred (Green Belt, Black Belt, or equivalent)

Responsibilities

• Partner with regional and corporate leadership to translate strategic objectives into actionable Lean deployment plans
• Drive alignment and adoption of enterprise operating systems and standardized processes across multiple sites
• Support the development and execution of a scalable, enterprise-wide Continuous Improvement (CI) framework
• Identify performance gaps using data analysis and lead targeted improvement initiatives
• Facilitate Kaizen events and cross-functional initiatives to improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and engagement
• Implement and sustain improvements through standard work, visual management, and accountability routines
• Establish performance tracking mechanisms to ensure sustainability of improvements
• Coach and develop plant leadership to strengthen Lean thinking and problem-solving capabilities
• Design and deliver Lean and operational excellence training (in-person and virtual)
• Lead organizational change initiatives to embed a continuous improvement mindset across all levels

Benefits

• Medical and prescription drug plans
• Telemedicine (with medical plan)
• High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Dental and vision plans
• Virtual physical therapy
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs
• Retirement 401k program with company match
• Employee stock purchase plan (voluntary)
• Financial wellness planning
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care
• Short-term and long-term disability
• Basic life insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
• Adoption financial reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children)
• Voluntary identity theft and fraud protection

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior