Continuous Improvement Manager

KETJEN is seeking a leader to drive continuous improvement (CI) projects supporting the global Ketjen organization.  This role will report to the Chief Operations Officer (COO) and will work with all levels of the Ketjen leadership and organizations to identify, evaluate, develop, execute, and monitor results from improvement initiatives from concept through to execution.  This role will manage a Work Process Improvement Specialist and a Data Analyst. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Ketjen CI project execution 

• Provide guidance and support to CI project leads to ensure successful project completion 

• Ketjen improvement strategy and increasing portfolio impact, focused on efficiency gains in current workflows and work processes 

• Deployment of aligned resource(s) to CI initiatives 

• Partner with the Operations organization for opportunity mining, resource prioritization, and overall Ketjen CI portfolio development 

• Training and mentoring of group members, peer resources, and the broader Ketjen organization to utilize CI tools and principles, including Lean Six Sigma.  

• Develop reporting and portfolio tracking for quick visibility to program status for COO, CEO, and board members 

TYPICAL JOB DUTIES 

• Leading Improvement Projects: Manage and lead complex Lean Six Sigma projects aimed at reducing waste, improving quality, and enhancing efficiency. Use DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology to structure projects.  

• Data Analysis: Analyze data to identify root causes of problems and opportunities for improvement. Use statistical tools and software to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.  

• Process Mapping: Create detailed process maps to understand current workflows and identify areas for improvement. Use tools like value stream mapping to visualize processes.  

• Change Management: Facilitate change management initiatives to ensure smooth implementation of process improvements. Work with stakeholders to overcome resistance and ensure buy-in.  

• Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the impact of improvement projects. Ensure that improvements are sustained over time.  

• Collaboration: Work closely with teams to integrate Lean Six Sigma methodologies into daily operations. Collaborate with other departments to align improvement efforts with organizational goals.  Build and maintain positive team relationships and communications with diverse global initiative owners across multiple locations. 

• Reporting: Prepare and present detailed reports on project progress, outcomes, and impact to senior management. Communicate findings and recommendations effectively. Lead project & program management execution for strategic, complex, cross-functional initiatives to support the prioritized initiatives. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor's degree (or master’s degree) in Project Management, Engineering, Business Administration, Management, or other related technical/business field or the equivalent experience is required 

• Minimum of five years' experience in project management in an industrial setting which demonstrates growth in capabilities and responsibilities 

• Proficiency in LEAN principles 

• A minimum of 7 years total experience in chemical or related manufacturing industry 

• Demonstrated experience successfully coaching and mentoring indirect functional teams and other project team members. 

• Direct people leadership experience 

• Experience implementing projects with technical components required 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Project Management Certification 

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification and minimum 2 years direct full-time experience on completing multiple Six Sigma projects 

• Minimum 2 years demonstrated successful experience working with global, cross-functional teams via influential leadership 

• Previous experience in managing multiple concurrent projects & programs in an agile approach