Continuous Improvement Manager

About This Role

The Continuous Improvement Manager drives operational excellence initiatives across Woodgrain's manufacturing operations. This position leads the development and implementation of continuous improvement strategies that enhance productivity, safety, quality, and financial performance of the plant. The manager partners with Production Managers, Production Supervisors, and frontline team members to identify opportunities, eliminate waste, standardize processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong analytical skills, a passion for process improvement, and the ability to influence change.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, cost reduction, and customer satisfaction
• Facilitate Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence programs across manufacturing departments, maintenance, warehouse, and related functions
• Lead training efforts in Lean principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and problem-solving techniques
• Drive implementation of Lean tools including: 5S, Kaizen Events, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Visual Management, Root Cause Analysis, SMED, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)
• Partner with department leaders to establish continuous improvement roadmaps and project priorities
• Facilitate cross-functional problem-solving teams to address operational challenges and improve processes
• Support implementation and sustainability of standardized work practices
• Conduct process observations, audits, and assessments to identify improvement opportunities
• Manage multiple improvement projects simultaneously while ensuring timely completion and results achievement
• Develop business cases for improvement initiatives and report achieved savings and benefits
• Support capital projects by evaluating process impacts and identifying opportunities for operational improvements

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Business, or a related field
• Candidates without a bachelor’s degree will qualify with an additional 4 years of related experience in lieu of a bachelor’s degree
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
• Minimum 5 years of Continuous Improvement experience in a manufacturing environment
• Minimum 3 years leading Lean Manufacturing or operational excellence initiatives
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

Nice to have:

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• Experience in wood products industries
• Experience leading cultural transformation initiatives