Head of Operational Excellence

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better.  Join the team and become part of our family!

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced change agent to lead our Operational Excellence team and contribute to the delivery of our growth and improvement efforts, driving safety, quality, productivity, and cost improvements across a multi-site metals manufacturer with one-of-a-kind capabilities.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and the Toyota Production System, along with a proven track record of successfully implementing and leading Lean transformations in large manufacturing organizations with multiple locations.

This is a critical leadership role, reporting to our Vice President of Operations, and the successful candidate should have aspirations for a broader and growing set of leadership responsibilities.

This role will be supporting our Casting business (Dura-Bar & Aarrowcast) and will be based out of our facilities in either Woodstock, IL or Shawano, WI. Alternatively, this role can be based out of our corporate office in Mequon, WI (Milwaukee area) with 40% travel.

What you'll focus on:

• Develop, lead and implement a division-wide lean transformation strategy, facilitating the development of the Lean Transformation Road map that is enabled by Automation and Digital Technologies where appropriate. This should consider all aspects of our business including manufacturing operations, including but not limited to production processes, supply chain management, quality control, and safety protocols and across all administrative functions.

• Lead the division-wide CI function with responsibilities for mentoring cross-functional teams in the application of Lean methodologies to identify waste, streamline processes, and improve overall operational efficiency.

• Leverage our Strategy Deployment Process and use the Hoshin Kanri methodologies to prioritize and accelerate change.

• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the effectiveness of continuous improvement efforts and regularly report progress to senior management.

• Conduct thorough analysis of current processes and systems to identify areas for improvement and develop actionable plans to address deficiencies.

• Collaborate with department heads and frontline employees to foster a culture of continuous improvement and empower all team members to contribute to the ongoing optimization of operations.

• Provide training and education to employees at all levels on Lean principles and methodologies, ensuring a shared understanding of best practices and fostering a mindset of continuous improvement.

• Drive the implementation of standardized work processes and visual management systems to enhance transparency, accountability, and performance visibility.

• Collaborate with senior leadership to align continuous improvement initiatives with overall business objectives and strategic goals, ensuring that efforts are prioritized and resourced appropriately.

What we're looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a leadership role within a manufacturing environment, with a demonstrated track record for leading an enterprise wide or division wide lean transformation and continuous improvement office.

• 10 years of progressive responsibilities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• In-depth knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and methodologies, as well as the Toyota Production System, with a strong emphasis on practical application and implementation. Ideally holds a certification.

• Proven experience leading Lean transformations in large manufacturing organizations with multiple locations, resulting in measurable improvements in operational efficiency, quality, and cost reduction.

• Expert problem solver with excellent analytical skills and the ability to effectively interpret data to identify opportunities for improvement and drive informed decision-making.

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams and influence change at all levels of the organization.

• Exceptional project management capabilities, including the ability to prioritize competing demands, manage resources effectively, and drive projects to successful completion on time and within budget.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.

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The annual hiring range for this position is: $117,600-$147,000. The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will depend on various factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, experience, and qualifications. Compensation decisions are tailored to the unique circumstances of each position and candidate.

We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).