Continuous Improvement Manager

Job Purpose

Join Our Team as a Continuous Improvement Manager II!

Are you passionate about driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement? Do you have a knack for project management and a proven track record in Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies? If so, AkzoNobel has an exciting opportunity for you!

As a Continuous Improvement Manager II at AkzoNobel, you will be at the forefront of championing and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement across our manufacturing operations. Your role will involve developing and implementing CI strategies, leading critical projects, and coaching teams to achieve production, quality, safety, and cost objectives. You'll work closely with internal and external stakeholders to deliver efficient and safe processes, adhering to AkzoNobel's Project Management and Lean Manufacturing standards.
 

Key Responsibilities

Project Initiation and Planning:
•  Develop needs and business cases for improvement projects.
•  Review project proposals and plans with management.
•  Lead project charter refinement, work scope creation, and cost estimation.

Project Execution:
•  Lead Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) for major equipment.
•  Define and implement commissioning and startup plans.
•  Participate in design reviews, PHA’s, MOC’s, and PSSR’s.
•  Oversee mechanical and electrical system commissioning and integration.

Maintenance and Documentation:
•  Develop maintenance plans and equipment strategies.
•  Ensure comprehensive documentation and proper digital filing.
•  Lead the handoff process and provide ongoing operational support.

Safety and Compliance:
•  Act as a safety ambassador, promoting Process Safety Management.
•  Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, OSHA PSM, and other safety standards.
 

Key Activities

•  Identify and analyze improvement needs in collaboration with Site Manager and stakeholders.
•  Formulate project plans, determine budgets, and acquire necessary resources.
•  Coach and coordinate with project leads to monitor and drive project activities.
•  Evaluate and close projects, analyze lessons learned, and archive project documents.
•  Develop local capabilities in applying CI tools and methods.
•  Support and challenge the workforce in setting and prioritizing improvement activities.
•  Manage the improvement project funnel and run improvement projects.
 

Level of Autonomy

•  High degree of autonomy for executing projects from start to finish.
•  Make key decisions based on budget and financial spend.
•  Assist in capital expenditures and process work.

Job Requirements

•  5+ years of relevant work experience in manufacturing, process engineering, or continuous improvement.
•  Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
•  CI Expert or Process Engineer with extensive experience in Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and project management.
•  Excellent communication, interpersonal, and coaching skills.
•  Strong project management capabilities and experience with CAPEX investments.
•  Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to run accurate analyses.
•  Strong change agent at both management and shop floor levels.
•  Broad knowledge of functional discipline, strategy, policies, and standards.

Rewards/Benefits

The salary range for these skills is:  $110,000 - $123,000.  This is the range that we in good faith anticipate relying on when setting wages for this position.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range.  This salary range may also be modified in the future.

Benefits:  Medical insurance with HSA • Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits • Annual bonus • 401K retirement savings with 6% company match • Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay • Paid Parental leave • Hybrid work for most exempt roles • Active Diversity & Inclusion Networks • Career growth opportunities on a regional and global scale • Tuition Reimbursement • Career growth opportunities • Employee referral bonus •

Why AkzoNobel? At AkzoNobel, we believe in the power of innovation and the importance of continuous improvement. We offer a dynamic work environment where you can make a real impact. Join us to be part of a team that values excellence, creativity, and sustainability.