Continuous Improvement Manager

This Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence and efficiency across the 1800-Flowers Food Group Operational Sites. The person in this role will build a Continuous Improvement framework and collaborate with management teams and cross-functional teams to train/educate site personnel, support projects and develop policies, procedures, and standard work. They will identify improvement opportunities and implement process enhancements with sustainable results. This role demands excellent communication skills, a strong analytical mindset and exceptional problem-solving capabilities. This position can sit in Medford, OR or Columbus, OH.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILIITIES

Major responsibilities of the position are listed below. To perform the job successfully, the individual must be able to execute each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties, assignments and specific projects may be assigned at the discretion of executive management.

• Work with senior leadership, site management, and finance to conduct thorough analysis of existing processes, workflows, and systems to identify areas for improvement. Develop and implement strategies to streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance productivity. Perform risk identification and prioritize mitigation activities.
• Lead and facilitate cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Six Sigma projects. Implement best practices and standardize processes to achieve operational excellence.
• Provide training and coaching to team members on process improvement methodologies, tools, and techniques. Foster a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Investigate and determine the root causes of operational issues, defects, or inefficiencies. Develop corrective and preventive action plans to address identified issues. Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs while maintaining or improving safety and quality.
• Collaborate with quality teams to ensure that process improvements align with quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Follow all company, safety, food safety, GMP, quality and environmental policies and procedures when in the facilities and when performing activities and make sure project reflect the same.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation of process improvements, changes, and their impact on performance. Ensure that standard operating procedures (SOPs) are up to date.
• Change management: Provide structured approach and processes to plan, implement, and manage transitions or changes within the process.
• Collect and analyze data to identify performance trends, bottlenecks, and areas of improvement. Use statistical tools and methodologies to make data-driven decisions.
• Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track process performance. Establish benchmarks and regularly report progress to stakeholders.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other applicable degree
• 3+ years of Continuous Improvement management experience within a production/manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in process engineering principles, including process design, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Proven track record of persuading/driving change through demonstrated enthusiasm and positivity.
• Excellent analytical and math skills with great attention to detail.
• Preferred experience in a food industry
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient with computer and information technology
• Proven ability to identify, assess and solve problems
• Demonstrated proficiency in Lean and/or Six Sigma continuous improvement principles and methodologies.
• Proven track record optimizing operational efficiencies with OEE as a metric
• Experience in Value Stream Mapping
• Proficient with Microsoft tools such as MS Excel, MS Word and MS Access.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business technical procedures and policies.
• Demonstrate effective means to present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers, and teammates.
• Ability to manage multiple task simultaneously

Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time