Continuous Improvement Program Manager

Redwood Materials is looking for a Continuous Improvement Program Manager to develop and implement continuous improvement systems across the organization. You will be responsible for leading and implementing initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity across all departments within our organization. You will play a crucial role in identifying opportunities for process optimization, developing strategies to address inefficiencies, and driving a culture of continuous improvement throughout the company. This role will work collaboratively with all levels of the organization to design, build, and implement the Continuous Improvement Program.

Responsibilities will include:

• Program Development and Implementation:
• Design and implement a comprehensive continuous improvement program aligned with the company's strategic objectives.
• Lead cross-functional teams to identify improvement opportunities, prioritize initiatives, and develop action plans.
• Develop and refine methodologies, tools, and frameworks to support the continuous improvement program.
• Work with cross functional teams to implement digital solutions, such as workflow automation tools, data analytics platforms, and performance monitoring dashboards.
• Process Analysis and Optimization:
• Conduct thorough analyses of existing processes and workflows to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Collaborate with departmental stakeholders to streamline processes, eliminate bottlenecks, and reduce waste.
• Implement best practices and procedures to drive efficiency and consistency across the organization.
• Facilitate brainstorming sessions and Kaizen events with cross-functional teams to generate innovative ideas for process improvement and problem-solving.
• Change Management and Training:
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement by promoting awareness, engagement, and participation at all levels of the organization.
• Develop and provide training to employees on continuous improvement methodologies, tools, and techniques.
• Facilitate change management initiatives to ensure successful adoption of new processes and practices.
• Mentor and coach team members on problem-solving techniques, data analysis methods, and process optimization strategies.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of improvement efforts and track progress over time.
• Monitor and analyze performance data to assess the impact of improvement initiatives and identify areas for further enhancement.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations highlighting progress, achievements, and areas of concern.
• Proactively identify emerging trends and opportunities for innovation to drive ongoing improvements.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in industrial engineering, operations management or other relevant field.
• 5+ years of experience in a continuous improvement or process improvement role, preferably in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Demonstrable experience leading large teams.
• Strong experience implementing and understanding of continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, Agile, etc.
• Experience on project management from design to execution.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and influence change at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities with a track record of driving results and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or similar continuous improvement methodologies is preferred.
• Experience implementing CI strategies form design to completion.
• Strong leading experience implementing and leveraging CI tools in the day-to-day operations. Ex. Kaizen, 5S, DMAIC and PDSA, Root Cause analysis, Performance boards, Kanban, Gemba walks, VSM, Six sigma, Lean analysis, etc.
• Clear understanding of connection between leading and lagging indicators.

Skills

• Ability to lead and influence up and downstream.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to identify problems, analyze data, and develop actionable recommendations.
• Able to build critical relationships.
• Demonstrate critical thinking.
• Ability to work in an ambiguous environment without predefined standards.
• Ability to execute with a calm and collaborative urgency.
• A passion for sustainability and making the world a better place!
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources, meet deadlines, and deliver results.