Continuous Improvement Manager - Central Garden & Pet
Sanford, NC 27332
About the Job
Description
The Continuous Improvement Manager will play a critical role in transforming Central Home Brands into a world class leader of manufacturing, performance, and efficiencies. Reporting to the Sanford, NC Plant Manager, the Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for leading, directing, and managing continuous improvement across all locations to advance business performance and improve cost, quality, and efficiency performance. They will lead multidisciplinary teams through improvement processes that require data collection, analysis, evaluation, planning, execution, and follow up. In addition, the Continuous Improvement Manager will lead and coach problem solving with standard tools and processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Create and maintain the Master Plan of detailed improvement initiatives across the site that includes resource requirements, cost savings definition, time-bound goals and expectations, and lead through the projects outlined in the plan
- Spearhead multidisciplinary teams through comprehensive improvement processes, emphasizing hands-on problem-solving, data analysis, strategic planning, and meticulous follow-up
- Implement and champion continuous improvement tools and methodologies such as lean principles, business process optimization, metrics management, and standard operating procedures. Be open to teach, coach, and adapt to the team to ensure successful adoption
- Drive breakthrough results in critical operational metrics, supporting TRIR, Fill Rate, Net Productivity, Cost Per Unit, Efficiency, and Labor utilization through rigorous analysis, recommendation, implementation, and technical support
- Establish and maintain operational performance systems, fostering a culture of zero loss PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) to ensure both short and long-term targets are met consistently
- Collaborate closely with operational leaders to align improvement efforts with the organizations strategic roadmap, leveraging operational technology solutions effectively
- Support the execution of the manufacturing roadmap in line with the Central to Home vision, including deep understanding of operational technology solutions (SAP/ERP, CMMS, QMS, safety, data analytics and visualization, process development and implementation, training systems, etc.)
- Expand upon 24-month roadmap to ensure we always have a 24-month future pipeline of enhancements, opportunities and improvements to tackle that are aligned with current business needs
- Support Net Productivity (Net Pro) by targeting projects to help deliver 2% in Net Pro savings YOY
- Support networks efforts to better track and quantify savings associated with process change
IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES
We are seeking a seasoned leader with a proven track record of driving manufacturing excellence in complex supply chain environments that are in transition from a manual, labor intensive process to a more automated environment via breakthrough ideas and process. The ideal candidate will possess:
- A history of driving step-change improvements in manufacturing organizations
- Exceptional leadership qualities, including strong coaching skills, the ability to inspire teams, and influence stakeholders
- Proven success as a change agent, with a results-driven mindset and a passion for driving operational excellence
- Proven knowledge of the Continuous Improvement toolset such as TPM, Lean Manufacturing, PDCA, Pareto Analysis, Gap Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, Cost Analysis, Action Planning, and Project Management and can demonstrate experience and leadership in these areas
- Experience in data analytics and interpretation, utilization of information to drive a business case, gap analysis, root cause analysis, project management and the desire to problem solve on the floor in the manufacturing plant
- The ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and engage the team through expertise, coaching, and leadership
- Demonstrated experience in at least one other Supply Chain discipline such as Logistics, Warehousing and Distribution, Production and Manufacturing Planning, Engineering, or Procurement
- Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred, with demonstrated experience leading a manufacturing plant to operational excellence
- A Bachelors degree in Engineering or Supply Chain Management preferred
In terms of the performance and personal competencies required for the position; we would highlight the following:
Business Acumen
Deep experience working within an organization known for world-class TPM/WCM programs is a must. Strong operational management experience within a hyper-seasonal industry highly preferred.
Executing for Results
Demonstrate strong management skills, drive, and an expectation to roll up their sleeves to do the work to get the job done in partnership with the business unit or corporate segment leadership to achieve the highest standards of performance.
Leading Teams
Previous line management experience as an operations leader is a must. The ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and engage the team through their enthusiasm, support, and excitement about the business.
Building Relationships and Using Influence
Excellent communication skills and strong interpersonal skills are required of the successful candidate. They must quickly establish credibility within business units and people at all levels of the organization.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Office and Manufacturing / Distribution environment
- Some travel required
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2023 net sales of $3.3 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the Pet and Garden industries. The Companys innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro, Aqueon, Cadet, Farnam, Ferry-Morse, Four Paws, Kaytee, K&H, Nylabone and Pennington, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central is based in Walnut Creek, California and has 6,700 employees across North America and Europe. Visit www.central.com to learn more.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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Source : Central Garden & Pet