Manager Continuous Improvement

Generac; Janesville (WI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Generac is seeking a Manager, Continuous Improvement to drive Lean transformation across our distribution network. You will lead a team of Continuous Improvement Coordinators, execute Kaizen events, and partner with operations leaders to deliver safer, more efficient, scalable processes that generate measurable business results.

You will coach teams in Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, and problem solving while advancing the Generac Operating System (GOS).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of Continuous Improvement, Lean, or Operational Excellence experience in manufacturing or distribution environments.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience.
• Experience with Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System, Shingo principles, or similar Lean operating systems.
• Preferred: Lean transformation initiatives and process improvement programs; Lean, Operations, or Supply Chain certifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute continuous improvement strategies, projects, and Kaizen events within distribution operations.
• Coach and mentor teams in Lean methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, TPM, SMED, and Root Cause Problem Solving.
• Drive implementation and sustainability of the Generac Operating System (GOS) across distribution facilities.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of up to 10 Continuous Improvement Coordinators.
• Deliver hands-on training that equips teams to identify waste, improve productivity, and enhance operational performance.
• Partner with site leadership to implement strategic initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Share best practices and collaborate with corporate Continuous Improvement teams to drive enterprise-wide success.

Skills

Lean leadership

Team leadership

Problem solving

Data analysis

Cross-functional

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain

Tools

SAP ERP

Job description

Are you passionate about driving operational excellence and leading high-performing teams? As a Manager, Continuous Improvement, you'll play a key role in advancing the Generac Operating System (GOS) across our distribution network. You'll lead a team of Continuous Improvement Coordinators, champion Lean transformation initiatives, and partner with operations leaders to create safer, more efficient, and scalable processes that deliver measurable business results.

Essential Duties

• Lead and execute continuous improvement strategies, projects, and Kaizen events within distribution operations.
• Coach and mentor teams in Lean methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, TPM, SMED, and Root Cause Problem Solving.
• Drive implementation and sustainability of the Generac Operating System (GOS) across distribution facilities.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of up to 10 Continuous Improvement Coordinators.
• Deliver hands-on training that equips teams to identify waste, improve productivity, and enhance operational performance.
• Partner with site leadership to implement strategic initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Share best practices and collaborate with corporate Continuous Improvement teams to drive enterprise-wide success.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of Continuous Improvement, Lean, or Operational Excellence experience in manufacturing or distribution environments.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience.
• Experience with Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System, Shingo principles, or similar Lean operating systems.
• PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Proven success leading Lean transformation initiatives and process improvement programs.
• Lean, Operations, or Supply Chain certifications.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.
• Strong understanding of flow principles, Kanban, PFEP, and material flow optimization.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional projects and drive organizational change.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Innovative mindset with the ability to challenge traditional processes and drive meaningful change.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on sustainable results.
• Exceptional coaching, communication, and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to influence across all levels of the organization and build strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Results-driven leader focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement.

Why Join Generac?

At Generac, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful initiatives that transform operations while developing people and processes. Join a team that values innovation, continuous improvement, and making a real difference across a growing global organization.

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel.