Continuous Improvement (Operational Excellence) Manager

Reference: PR/ _ Continuous Improvement (Operational Excellence) ManagerLocation: FloridaIndustry: Specialty Chemicals / Chemical ManufacturingReports To: Plant Manager / Director of OperationsPosition OverviewA leading chemical manufacturing organization is seeking a highly motivated Continuous Improvement (Operational Excellence) Manager to drive site-wide improvement initiatives across manufacturing, quality, safety, supply chain, and maintenance functions. This individual will serve as a change agent, partnering with cross-functional teams to identify improvement opportunities, eliminate waste, optimize processes, and cultivate a culture of operational excellence throughout the facility.The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemical manufacturing operations, demonstrated Lean Six Sigma expertise, and a proven ability to lead transformational improvement initiatives that deliver measurable business results.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the site's Operational Excellence strategy and continuous improvement roadmap.Facilitate Lean Six Sigma projects focused on improving safety, quality, productivity, cost, and customer service metrics.Drive process improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, and other CI methodologies.Partner with production, engineering, maintenance, quality, EHS, and supply chain teams to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities.Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational performance and project success.Coach, train, and mentor employees and leaders on Lean Six Sigma principles and problem-solving methodologies.Lead Kaizen events and facilitate cross-functional improvement workshops.Establish sustainable systems and standard work practices to ensure long-term process stability and continuous improvement.Analyze manufacturing data and operational trends to identify opportunities for increased throughput, improved efficiency, and waste reduction.Support capital projects and process optimization initiatives that improve site performance and capacity utilization.Foster a culture of accountability, employee engagement, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or related engineering discipline).Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.Minimum 5+ years of Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, Manufacturing Excellence, or Lean leadership experience.Direct experience within the chemical manufacturing industry.Demonstrated success leading Lean Six Sigma projects that resulted in measurable operational improvements.Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Root Cause Analysis, and Value Stream Mapping.Excellent analytical, project management, communication, and leadership skills.Ability to influence stakeholders and lead change across all levels of the organization.Key Success MetricsImprovement in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)Manufacturing cost reductionYield improvementWaste and scrap reductionThroughput increasesSafety performance improvementsLean Six Sigma project completion and financial impactEmployee engagement in continuous improvement activities