Senior Manager, Operational Excellence

Grande Cheese Company•Fond du Lac, WI

13h•Onsite

About The Position

As the Senior Manager, Operational Excellence, you will lead enterprise-wide initiatives that improve productivity, equipment reliability, operational performance, and cost efficiency across our manufacturing network. This highly visible role requires a strong ability to influence leaders at all levels, facilitate meaningful conversations, and gain alignment on strategic priorities while championing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. You will serve as a key partner across Operations, Engineering, Technical Services, and Finance to build a culture of continuous improvement and sustainable business results.

Requirements

4 Year/Bachelor Degree in Engineering or related technical field required.
Eight (8) or more years related proven experience in a similar role with a strong track record in leading continuous improvement initiatives.
In-depth knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
Experience with zero loss analysis and tools like Minitab, and in applying these methodologies effectively, particularly in the dairy industry.
Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including the ability to influence and inspire technical and non-technical cross-functional teams and drive change at all levels of the organization.
Effective in promoting and advocating for operational excellence principles.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and a proactive, results-oriented approach to overcoming challenges and driving continuous improvement.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
Manage multiple pursuits simultaneously; define and maintain focus on department objectives balanced with project and other department needs.
Project management experience, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver results within specified timelines and budgets.
Proficiency in project management tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Jira, Asana) and data analysis tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Tableau).
Proficiency in process mapping and analysis tools/software (e.g., Value Stream Mapping, Process Flowcharts, Statistical Analysis Tools).
Knowledge of Federal, State and Local food and water regulations, including CFR, FSMA, the PMO and Bioterrorism Act.
Possesses advanced knowledge and specialized understanding of technical concepts, principles, practices and procedures.
Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, preferably within manufacturing, logistics, or technology industries.
Analyzes problems/issues of diverse scope and considerable difficulty and determines solutions.
Originality and ingenuity are often required.
Advanced computer skills in MS Office Suite.
Ability / willingness to travel 60-80% of the time to Grande facilities across the Enterprise.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in Engineering or related technical field preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead enterprise-wide Operational Excellence initiatives that drive measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and operational performance.
Provide leadership and direction to a team of Operational Excellence professionals, building organizational capability and driving continuous improvement across the enterprise.
Champion Lean, Six Sigma, OEE, and Zero Loss principles to identify opportunities, eliminate waste, and optimize manufacturing processes.
Lead and evolve the Operations Rotational Program, developing future operations leaders through structured learning experiences, mentorship, and cross-functional exposure throughout the organization.