Director of Continuous Improvement

Universal Pure; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Continuous Improvement Director to foster a culture of operational excellence. This pivotal role involves developing and executing a comprehensive CI strategy, leading process optimization projects, and driving cost-saving initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, enabling them to influence change and enhance business performance. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and teamwork, where your contributions will directly impact the customer experience and the organization's growth trajectory.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in continuous improvement with 5+ years in leadership roles.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead CI strategy focusing on cost reduction and operational efficiency.
• Drive change management and promote industry best practices.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Project Management

Data-driven Decision Making

Change Management

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, or operations management

Master’s degree

Tools

Continuous Improvement Methodologies

Process Improvement Tools

Job description

The Continuous Improvement Director cultivates the development of a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence within Universal Pure. The individual in this position will be accountable for driving efficiency in operations, delivering cost savings, and providing information that will support a company on a path of aggressive growth and transformation. All improvement opportunities should be evaluated through the lens of our customers, directly or indirectly improving our customers’ experience, while supporting the strategic direction of the company. There will be a heavy focus on analytics utilizing data to understand business performance, identify problems, and drive actions. Translating information into understandable and actionable insights is key. The ideal candidate must be a strong leader that can lead with influence while being inquisitive and enthusiastic about improving the way we do business and can create momentum in the organization to deliver operational excellence.

Major tasks, responsibilities, and key accountabilities:

• Develop and Lead CI Strategy: Define and execute a comprehensive continuous improvement (CI) strategy aligned with the organization's goals, focusing on cost reduction, operational efficiency, and quality improvement.
• Process Optimization: Lead the identification, development, and implementation of process improvement projects across departments utilizing lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other process improvement tools.
• Performance Measurement: Develop KPIs and metrics to measure the impact of CI initiatives, track performance improvements, and identify further areas of opportunity.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with leaders from operations, finance, HR, and other departments to ensure CI initiatives are aligned with business needs and supported across the organization.
• Training & Development: Design and deliver continuous improvement training programs for staff, promoting a culture of operational excellence and empowering employees at all levels to contribute to process enhancements.
• Change Management: Drive change management efforts to ensure smooth implementation of new processes, tools, and systems, addressing resistance and ensuring successful adoption.
• Cost & Efficiency Improvement: Lead cost-saving initiatives by identifying inefficiencies in operations and recommending innovative solutions for improvement.
• Best Practices: Promote and implement industry best practices in operational processes and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Risk Management: Anticipate potential risks associated with CI initiatives and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Travel Required:

• Travel of 50% required.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, operations management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in continuous improvement, process improvement, or operational excellence roles with at least 5 years in a leadership position.
• Certifications: Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or similar certification strongly preferred.
• Manufacturing: Previous food manufacturing or supply chain strongly preferred.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale process improvement projects and drive measurable outcomes.
• Excellent leadership, project management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and influence at all levels of the organization.
• Other Requirements: Demonstrated experience in change management and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Working Conditions:

• Ability to manage stress effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment.
• Must be able to multi-task and handle numerous requests from internal customers.
• Requires strong decision-making, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills to influence change and sustain improvements.
• Frequent travel required; must arrange travel within company policy and adapt to changing schedules.
• Ability to work evenings or weekends as needed to meet project deadlines or operational demands.
• Work closely with colleagues at all levels, building strong relationships and fostering teamwork.
• Must be professional, approachable, and able to communicate effectively with diverse teams and leadership.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Universal Pure Is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Manufacturing, Project Management, and Supply Chain

Industries

• Food and Beverage Services, Manufacturing, and Environmental Services