Continuous Improvement Manager

General Purpose:

The Continuous Improvement Manager (CIM) will work with DFA employees both internal and external to Schulenburg to increase profitability through implementation and application of continuous improvement methodologies, facilitation of events, and by mentoring and coaching others. This position is a leadership role, and as such is expected to inspire employees through CI initiatives to greater levels of quality, productivity and engagement. This role is expected to always maintain the integrity of DFA's mission, core values and voice of the customer in focus.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Continuously drive the facility's culture toward a higher level of reducing waste and creating value. Challenge status quo methods and theories to cultivate a work environment that optimizes its operations and uses of resources.

• Identify and facilitate productivity and efficiency initiatives. Develop financial justification for productivity and efficiency initiative driving toward 100% "Right the First Time".
• Facilitate teams that are focused on identifying areas of opportunity, developing strategy for improvement and measurement of results.
• Provide mentoring, coaching and training to support the use of continuous improvement methodologies and tools.
• Be a catalyst for team development, growth and engagement.
• Leads Kaizen events to improve existing processes and strive to achieve sustainability.
• Use statistical analysis in determining opportunities for improvement in Plant Operations.
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing methodology to improve efficiencies and minimize waste.
• Be a champion of change, systematically enhancing continuous improvement and ensuring the integrations fit within other areas of the organization.
• Responsible for reporting activities such as KPI's, status of current or future initiatives and overall communications by helping others to see the what, why and how.
• Must follow all DFA GMP's and work in a manner consistent with all Corporate and regulatory, food safety, quality and sanitation requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor degree or technical degree- Business Administration, Engineering
• 5+ years of operations/engineering experience in a manufacturing environment- preferred.
• Cross functional operations experience with a strong understanding of various plant functions.
• 3+ years of experience in supervising other employees.
• Lean and/or Six Sigma certification preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with introducing new techniques (i.e. change agent).
• Must be able to read, write and speak English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree- Business Administration, Engineering, Management & Leadership
• Lean or Six Sigma certifications
• 3+ years as a Continuous Improvement Manager

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans