Global Continuous Improvement Manager

Greif; Vreeland; On-site; EUR 70,200 - 119,300; Full time

Job summary

Greif is seeking a Global Continuous Improvement Manager to lead strategic Lean Six Sigma initiatives and drive action-biased improvements across its operations. The role centers on coaching Green Belts, executing A3 projects, and aligning improvements withGreif's Build to Last pillars.

The candidate will oversee complex CI projects, champion safety, ensure high-quality processes, and travel regionally and internationally up to 75% to support critical initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required; 8–12 years of experience preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification required.
• Excellent communication with executive stakeholders and Tier 1 colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Leads strategic CI initiatives using Lean Six Sigma methodologies across locations.
• Coaches Green Belts and Leaders to foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Conducts assessments and oversees complex CI projects to optimize performance.
• Maintains documentation of deviations and guides operations to ensure quality.
• Drives Kaizen events and supports global Lean Six Sigma programs.
• Travel 50–75% regionally and internationally to support critical projects.

Skills

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Executive communication

Project management

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Global Continuous Improvement Manager (Open)

The Global Continuous Improvement Leader will lead the strategic application of advanced Lean Six Sigma methodologies to drive transformative action‑biased improvements in organizational operations and processes directly supporting Greif’s Build to Last Pillars. The Global C.I. Leader (Level 3) will be responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments and overseeing the execution of complex continuous improvement projects, aimed at optimizing performance and achieving operational excellence. Effectively utilizing advanced Lean tools and methods is crucial for aligning process enhancements with the organization’s strategic goals. Additionally, this role will play a pivotal role in coaching and mentoring Green Belts and Strategic Leadership to foster a culture of systemic continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Utilizes advanced A3 level Lean manufacturing concepts, techniques, strategies, and processes in a specific location or across Business units to optimize flow and achieve the highest level of process responsiveness, continually pushing the boundaries of operational efficiency.
• Champions and perpetuates a culture of continuous improvement with an unwavering commitment to achieving exceptional productivity gains and waste minimization in operational activities.
• Conducts strategic assessments and employs rigorous evaluation methodologies for ongoing continuous improvement initiatives, relentlessly pursuing opportunities to optimize process performance to the most exacting standards.
• Maintains meticulous records and documentation of deviations, proactively guiding manufacturing operations to prevent potential issues ensuring the highest level of quality and consistency.
• Demonstrates an unparalleled mastery of Lean manufacturing concepts, applying them to achieve exceptional product quality that consistently aligns with Greif's top‑tier objectives.
• Provides expert guidance in resolving the most complex issues, leveraging established best practices, advanced methodologies, and innovative solutions.
• Holds a pivotal role as a key team member in Greif's Global Lean Six Sigma Programs and plays an instrumental role in identifying and driving A3 Project executions to the highest levels of excellence.
• Assumes leadership in organizing and executing Kaizen events, delivering substantial and sustained improvements across the entire organization.
• Acts as a stalwart champion of safety protocols, actively promoting and enhancing daily safety practices and instilling a culture of continuous safety improvement (CBSQ).
• Establishes and maintains seamless communication channels while fostering humble, collaborative relationships with other departments, facilitating cross‑functional synergy and knowledge sharing.
• Readily accepts additional responsibilities as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and unwavering commitment to excellence in all tasks.

Education And Experience

• Typically possesses a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) and 8-12 years of relevant experience.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Knowledge And Skills

• Proven expertise in advanced troubleshooting and problem‑solving, consistently delivering innovative and efficient solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Demonstrates exemplary written and verbal communication skills, tailored for conveying highly technical information to executive stakeholders and Tier 1 colleagues.
• Exceptional proficiency in managing multifaceted tasks and projects within the demanding environment of advanced manufacturing.
• Possesses profound knowledge of plant and business unit operations, showcasing a holistic understanding of processes and systems, and an innate ability to identify opportunities for continuous improvement across Greif Business Units.
• Mastery of advanced software tools, including Microsoft Office and cutting‑edge data analysis and process optimization software.
• Extensive willingness to travel regionally and internationally (50‑75%) to support critical projects and initiatives, exemplifying commitment to hands‑on involvement and relentless pursuit of excellence in continuous improvement efforts.

Compensation Range

The pay range for this position is €70,200.00 - €119,300.00 annually. Typically, a competitive wage for new hires will fall between 0.00 to 0.00 annually. Offers for this position may vary based on market data and other factors such as job‑related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. The position may also be eligible for a short‑term incentive.

Benefits Statement

Greif offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive core benefits, paid time off, and a range of local benefits for eligible colleagues.

EEO Statement

We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and opportunity for growth. Greif is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of sex, race, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic. For more information read Greif’s Equal Opportunity Policy.

https://www.greif.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HR-101-Equal-Employment-Opportunity-Policy-English.pdf