Continuous Improvement Manager

Position Summary

The Continuous Improvement Manager serves as a strategic change leader responsible for implementing and sustaining Lean manufacturing initiatives across the plant. This role partners cross-functionally to eliminate waste, standardize processes, improve flow, and deliver measurable results in Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC). The position balances hands-on shop-floor engagement with data-driven strategy to strengthen a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Lean Strategy & Execution

• Lead deployment of Lean tools including 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Visual Management, A3, and PDCA.

• Develop and execute continuous improvement roadmaps aligned with plant and corporate objectives.

• Champion structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis methodologies.

Operational Excellence

• Identify and implement initiatives that reduce waste, increase productivity, and improve process flow.

• Facilitate Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement workshops.

• Partner with Engineering, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and HR to ensure sustainable improvements.

Metrics & Performance Management

• Establish and track KPIs aligned to Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost.

• Monitor project savings, efficiency gains, and ROI.

• Deliver executive-level reporting and visual performance dashboards.

• Lead Gemba walks and ensure accountability for action items.

Training & Culture Development

• Train and mentor employees and supervisors on Lean principles and daily management systems.

• Reinforce standard work, accountability, and employee engagement in CI activities.

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement at all organizational levels.

Compliance & Standards

• Support alignment with IATF 16949 and customer-specific requirements.

• Ensure documentation and process controls meet audit standards.

• Collaborate with global CI leadership to align with corporate strategy.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Industrial Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 3–5 years of experience in continuous improvement or Lean leadership within automotive or high-volume manufacturing.

• Demonstrated success leading Kaizen events and delivering measurable operational results.

• Strong knowledge of Lean tools and structured problem-solving methodologies.

Preferred:

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.

• Tier 1 or Tier 2 automotive manufacturing experience.

• Experience with stamping, forming, assembly, or automated production environments.

• Exposure to IATF 16949 standards and audit processes.