Continuous Improvement Manager, Rockford

OVERVIEW

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos, Airheads, Dentyne, Trident and Bubblicious!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Continuous Improvement Manager to join our growing team. 

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The CI Manager coordinates the implementation of Lean/Six Sigma manufacturing principles through a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) approach across the site to maximize operational efficiency and effectiveness while creating a continuous improvement culture.  They are the single point of contact for cross-functional coordination concerning site manufacturing improvement activities working in collaboration with the plant operations team and will coordinate the execution of projects designed to drive Margin Improvement and Cost of Goods (COGS) reduction via material usage and yield, productivity, labor, organizational design and equipment utilization as well as total supply chain effectiveness. Additional duties include:

• Create and manage overall lean strategy in alignment with Operations & Maintenance as well as execution for the site including lean training, implementation of lean programs and processes such as Six Sigma, Kaizen events, SMED, 5S and Kanban.  Collaborate with site leadership and Operations alignment to provide recommendation on site cost reduction opportunities and lean priorities.
• Secure profitable growth through the implementation of Perfetti Performance Excellence (PPE) which is based on TPM – Implement with an organized approach in collaboration with key stakeholders.  Facilitate all needs to achieve the transformation (training, culture movement at all levels, budget, etc.).  Drive performance improvement, ownership, organizational effectiveness, processes, and systems.
• Utilize the Perfetti Management Operating System (PMOS) for visual management & escalation to collaborate with the site front line leadership team to address opportunities/issues – assist in building solutions that address root cause and drive sustainable actions. 
• Lead site CI implementation activities including coordination of resources, collaboration with the engineering group, leading cross-functional decision-making teams concerning lean implementation project activities, developing execution plans for the implementation of lean concepts, creating SOPs and maximizing the operational effectiveness of the supply chain.
• Identify COGS reduction opportunities and develop solutions and facilitate implementation to address these opportunities rendering results that reduce waste, improve yields and increase efficiency, and productivity, labor and equipment utilization at the site level.
• Develop and monitor site metrics including but not limited to OEE, Productivity, WOW, MCC, LCC, and Budget to drive improvement changes.
• Determine economic feasibility of proposed changes in manufacturing methods and equipment and prepare specific recommendations ensuring alignment of activities with the site future vision for PMOS / PPE and prepare input.
• Collaborate for decision-making with all stakeholders to transform site culture and ways of working through Lean and CI activities.  Provide tools & training that support TPM based principles.
• Participate in the Site Leadership Team and CI community, building strategy for the site that incorporates elements to achieve Best in Class results and global consistency.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Technical, Sciences, Mathematics or similar disciplines.  In lieu of Bachelor’s Degree, 4 years of relevant experience in the similar fields.
• Five or more years’ experience in a manufacturing environment under multiple supply roles such as Shift Management, Industrial Engineering, and Site Logistics.
• Experience in project management with specific experience in project execution such as implementation of SMED, lean organizational designs and 5S while utilizing lean tools like value stream mapping.
• Strong numerate, analytical, communication and influencing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Flexible schedule (weekends & off shifts) to support any operational needs in this role as we are a 24/7 operation
• Comprehensive understanding of the TPM & Lean Manufacturing process including lean thinking methodology and their application to the site environment.
• Understanding of the change management and capital appropriations processes.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:  

• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off    
• 13 paid holidays    
• 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country 
• Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases  
• Comprehensive Health Insurance     
• Annual well-being subsidy  
• 20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options   
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement    
• Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, etc.)  
• Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)  

Join a 2024 NKY Best Workplace by applying today!  

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.