Laurel Plant - Continuous Improvement Manager

POSITION TITLE

Laurel Plant - Continuous Improvement Manager

POSITION OVERVIEW

Milliken & Company's Laurel Plant is seeking a results-driven Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager to champion Lean Six Sigma excellence, lead cross-functional projects, and foster a culture of operational excellence within our Fine Chemicals business.

This high-impact, high-visibility role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution. The CI Manager will oversee the site's improvement portfolio, deliver Lean Six Sigma training, and play a pivotal role in developing continuous improvement talent across the organization. This is a key developmental role with potential succession pathways into future operations leadership positions.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and sustain Lean Six Sigma initiatives at the site, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and best practices.

• Partner with corporate and site leaders to deliver foundational Lean Six Sigma training (e.g., Yellow Belt, Green Belt) to site personnel.

• Identify, prioritize, and manage a balanced portfolio of CI projects with measurable impact on safety, environmental performance, quality, cost, and productivity.

• Directly lead and execute key strategic improvement projects to support plant objectives.

• Coach and mentor teams and individuals in Lean Six Sigma tools, problem-solving, and change management techniques.

• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and plant leadership to build CI capabilities and develop future CI talent.

• Engage and influence stakeholders to drive buy-in, overcome resistance, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.

• Track and report key CI metrics, project ROI, and overall performance improvements to site and business leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related technical field (Chemical or Industrial Engineering preferred).

• 5+ years of experience in a chemical process or industrial manufacturing environment with a proven track record of leading CI initiatives.

• Black Belt certification (Master Black Belt or equivalent experience preferred).

• Deep knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies.

• Strong analytical and statistical skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools.

• Excellent influencing, coaching, and facilitation skills across all levels of the organization.

• Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deliver measurable results in a fast-paced environment.

QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED

• Master Black Belt or advanced continuous improvement certification.

• Recognized as a high-potential employee with leadership aspirations.

• Experience in regulated industries (chemical, pharmaceutical, or food manufacturing).

• Advanced root cause analysis and structured problem-solving capabilities.

• Collaborative mindset with a passion for developing others and building team capability.

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