Lean / Continuous Improvement Manager

About the position We're seeking a driven and strategic Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager to lead transformational initiatives across our manufacturing facility located in Groveport, OH. You will champion a culture of operational excellence and drive efficiency, productivity, and quality through Lean and data-driven improvement methods. If you thrive on solving complex problems, empowering teams, and delivering measurable impact-this role is for you. The Continuous Improvement Manager plays a strategic role in driving organizational excellence by leading Continuous Improvement initiatives (AOSos), high-impact projects, optimizing processes, and the advancement of a culture of continuous improvement by supporting the adoption and consistent application of AOSos throughout the organization. This role requires advanced technical expertise, leadership in cross-functional teams, and the ability to align continuous improvement initiatives with organizational goals to deliver improved and measurable results in Safety, Quality, Delivery, Productivity and Cost reduction. (AOSos is our Continuous Improvement Operating System)

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute CI strategies that align with plant and company-level KPIs (e.g., OEE, scrap, throughput, downtime, yield).
• Facilitate kaizen events, root cause analysis (RCA), and cross-functional workshops to solve operational challenges.
• Coach and mentor employees at all levels to embed Lean thinking and continuous improvement tools (5S, SMED, A3).
• Partner with production, engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to identify, prioritize, and implement CI projects and multiyear savings plans / CIP (Cost Improvement Plans).
• Use data analysis and visual management tools (dashboards, value stream maps, process maps) to uncover opportunities and track improvements.
• Develop training materials and lead CI capability-building programs across the facility.
• Promote a hands-on, floor-focused presence to drive daily engagement and sustainment of improvements.
• Support digital transformation initiatives (e.g., real-time data collection, MES, Industry 4.0) where applicable.
• Oversee project timelines, milestones, and deliverables across teams. Anticipate challenges, mitigate risks, and ensure projects are completed on time and within scope while providing guidance to improve performance and resolve roadblocks.
• Maintain comprehensive records of improvement activities, ensuring transparency and facilitating knowledge sharing across the organization.
• Collaborate with IT and systems teams to support appropriate technology solutions to adopt innovation in business processes.
• Supervise C.I. Engineer.
• Perform other duties as needed

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, with at least an intermediate understanding in CI, Lean, or Operational Excellence role.
• Proven track record of driving results through structured improvement projects.
• Strong facilitation, communication, presentation and change management skills.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in tools like Excel or other process analysis software.
• Strong experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Microsoft Outlook).
• Passion for developing people and building a continuous improvement culture.
• Results Focus: Ensures high-quality outcomes by driving team accountability, leading adaptation to change, mentoring colleagues, and fostering a positive, results-driven environment.
• Integrity, Ethics, and Values: Leads by example, fostering trust and respect through strong ethics, reliability, and openness. Fosters organizational values, drives innovation, and continuously seeks opportunities for improvement while supporting a culture of adaptability and creativity.

Nice-to-haves

• Masters' Degree a plus but not required.
• Coaching certification is a plus, but not required
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Experience in process mapping software (e.g., Visio).
• Lean Certification (Through Shingo/AME/SME)
• Experience in coaching individuals for performance and skill building
• Experience with company's profit and loss (P&L)/budget statement to validate financial savings.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.

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