Continuous Improvement Manager

Who are we?
At Calumet we deliver innovative specialty products trusted by companies across the globe. We are the foundation to everyday essential products that help millions of people live and thrive. We are headquartered in Indianapolis and have numerous production locations in the US. We are customer focused and utilize our values of collaboration and entrepreneurship to grow the business. We offer a dynamic, high-performance environment where team members can have real input and impact on our business. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves, treat the business as if it is your own and add value accordingly, come see why we're Calumet Proud!

Ideal candidate based in Porter, TX or Shreveport, LA.

PURPOSE:

The Continuous Improvement Manager initiates and facilitates lean improvement programs and activities. Responsible for leadership and development of programs that educate teammates about lean concepts that lead to the identification, development, and implementation of improvements at all the Performance Brand facilities. Typical improvement activity results in improved safety, productivity, quality, and cost reductions.

KEY OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Analyze existing business processes using various methods such as value stream mapping or process mapping to find opportunities for improvement and determine root causes
• Act as an internal consultant, developing short- and long-term CI strategies for the organization
• Direct and facilitate the ongoing lean improvement process teams through the use of techniques such as Kaizen, 5'S, PDCA, TPM, Kanban, Policy Deployment, etc.
• Facilitate progress and reduce costs in terms of workflow inefficiencies and reduction of operational waste
• Coordinate and lead key projects for improvement across all levels of the organization
• Drive the improvement of processes and systems and implement programs that will have continuing long-term benefits
• Establish measurable operational standards
• Develop plans, schedules, and budgets to improve existing processes
• Supervise and direct the workflow of CI department staff
• Provides lean improvement orientation and on-the-job training for teammates and ensures that the responsibilities are defined and understood, and oversees the lean projects
• Teach others to lead improvement efforts, including training on effective tools for successful project leadership
• Coach others and coordinate workshops and team trainings, openly sharing their guidance and technical expertise and ensuring that learning resources are widely available
• Identify ongoing lean improvement training needs and assist with developing and implementing the required training
• Create and communicate project reports to management providing visibility for lean initiatives
• Identify needs relating to improvements in safety/ergonomics and assist in developing and implementing solutions to these issues
• Develop and maintain annual value stream mapping efforts, CI plans, cost reductions savings, and calendars

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCES:

• BS, BA or similar degree with an emphasis in manufacturing, or equivalent is desired
• Full working knowledge of Lean Concepts (certified preferred) with demonstrated implementation and success
• Must be able to plan, deploy, and lead all lean activities that will produce significant cost savings through productivity, quality, waste reduction and improving business processes
• Proven analysis and presentation skills including use of common tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Must have demonstrated ability of leading and directing numerous Kaizen events
• Must be able to travel domestically

PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCES:

• 5+ years' manufacturing and management experience
• Experience with greenfield Lean implementation highly recommended
• Six Sigma experience is a plus

COMPETENCIES:

• Technical expertise - a firm understanding of process improvement techniques and experience applying these techniques to make organizational changes
• Organization skills - ability to spearhead both the planning and implementation stages of multiple projects; must be organized and committed to meeting deadlines
• Leadership skills - supervising others and acting as a coach - inspiring other team members to give their best effort and setting the direction for many initiatives
• Analytical thinking - critically evaluate individual processes and projects, then synthesize insights to arrive at a summary of overall organizational status
• Communication skills -able to speak, listen, and write well; will often hold presentations, facilitate meetings and trainings, and create reports
• Basic proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Self-starter with the ability to work autonomously and to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Fosters positive work relationships and is a solid team player
• Supports the strategic and operational direction of the business
• Demonstration of Calumet Values - Safety, Environment & Social Responsibility, Teamwork, Ownership, Passion for Customers, and Excellence

Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. We are an equal opportunity employer including disability and veteran. All offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test.