Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager (Direct Hire) Jefferson City, MO7771 Description for Continuous Improvement Manager:The Continuous Improvement Manager leads process optimization and operational excellence initiatives at our Jefferson City, MO manufacturing plant, which specializes in chillers for data centers. This role sits independently atop the function, with direct influence over all areas of manufacturing, enabling transformational change without being embedded within operations. The Continuous Improvement Manager develops and executes strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall performance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.Responsibilities for Continuous Improvement Manager:Develop and drive a plant-wide continuous improvement roadmap that aligns with business goals and enhances operational efficiency.Lead deployment of the Lean Management System (LMS), rooted in Daily Management and focused on 80/20 improvement, driving accountability at all levels of the organization.Implement 1-minute management concepts through visual management tools.Create, maintain, and implement the ideal state Value Stream Map (VSM) and transformation plan for the site.Own customer TAKT requirements by identifying and implementing strategies to achieve the capacity needed to meet customer schedules at 98% or greater on-time delivery (OTD).Eliminate bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and waste in production, assembly, and supply chain operations using tools such as material flow analysis, kanban, line balancing, sub-assembly, scheduling boards, tiered Daily Management, kitting, tugger delivery, standard work for operators and leaders, and data availability and reporting.Serve as the subject matter expert on Lean practices and tools, and develop the playbook/matrix for their application.Develop and deploy a “lead one, teach one” philosophy to build CI acumen across the Data Center organization.Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes, reduce variability, and improve product quality.Implement and oversee standard work processes, automation opportunities, and best practices for sustainable improvements.Collaborate with leadership, operations, engineering, and supply chain teams to identify and prioritize improvement projects.Serve as a change agent, ensuring new processes are adopted and sustained across all levels of the organization.Train and mentor employees on continuous improvement methodologies, fostering an environment of innovation and accountability.Lead and facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and cross-functional problem-solving sessions to drive engagement and results.Develop and build a Daily Management System to track key performance indicators (KPIs) that measure the success of improvement initiatives.Utilize data analytics, root cause analysis (RCA), and statistical process control (SPC) to drive decision making and continuous improvement efforts.Conduct regular Layered Process Audits (LPAs) and assessments to ensure process adherence and identify further improvement opportunities.Lead cost-reduction initiatives through value stream mapping, cycle time reduction, and process reengineering.Optimize material flow, inventory management, and resource allocation to enhance throughput and reduce operational costs.Drive improvements in energy efficiency and sustainability within manufacturing operations.Requirements for Continuous Improvement Manager:Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.5+ years of experience in continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, or operational excellence within a manufacturing environment.Proven expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies.Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt preferred.Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, industrial engineering, and production systems; HVAC, refrigeration, or related industry experience preferred.Experience with ERP/MES systems, data analytics tools, and process automation technologies.Proficiency in problem-solving tools such as DMAIC, FMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis.Exceptional leadership, communication, and facilitation skills, with a track record of driving cultural transformation and operational excellence.Ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.Onsite position with 0–10% travel.