Operational Improvement Manager

Job Title: Operational Improvement Manager

Location: On-site, Addison, IL 60101

Type: Direct Hire

The Operational Improvement Manager is a key role within the organization responsible for driving operational excellence and process improvement initiatives. This position entails overseeing and implementing strategies to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize productivity across various departments or the entire organization.

As an Operational Improvement Manager, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, finance, supply chain, and technology, to identify areas for improvement and develop actionable plans. You will be responsible for conducting detailed process analyses, identifying bottlenecks or inefficiencies, and implementing innovative solutions to enhance overall performance.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the VP of Operations to develop and execute long-term initiatives aimed at improving overall operational performance.

• Work closely with teams and departments to identify opportunities for maximizing production efficiency and reducing costs.

• Provide leadership in the implementation of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and establish a formal reporting structure.

• Oversee production activities at a high-level, focusing on OEE analysis and reporting on production runs.

• Prioritize and direct process improvement projects and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) initiatives.

• Take responsibility for project management, including effective communication, implementation, cost/benefit analysis, and resource allocation.

• Manage and track multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting priorities as necessary to meet evolving business needs.

• Track team progress using Key Performance Indicator (KPI) metrics and deliver presentations to stakeholders.

• Lead Design of Experiments (DoE) development and trials to optimize production processes.

• Provide training on project management methodologies and continuous improvement practices.

• Foster a problem-solving culture, encouraging employees to identify process issues and empowering them to implement solutions that drive high-value results and commitment to process improvement.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams across all departments.

Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in an operational improvement role.

• Six Sigma black belt certification.

• Experience in the industry of converting flexible materials (not necessarily healthcare).

• Demonstrates high energy, professional confidence, and a strong ability to drive results.

• Must be a self-starter capable of working independently or as part of a team.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

• Strong problem-solving abilities, demonstrating the capacity to identify and resolve issues independently.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Sterling Engineering