Manager, Process Optimization

The Guitar Center Company; Westlake Village (CA); On-site; USD 155,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision insurance

401K plus company match

Paid sick/holiday/vacation time

Employee discount program

Tuition reimbursement options

Gig leave for musicians

Job summary

A leading music retail company is looking for a Process Optimization Manager to enhance efficiency and reduce costs through proven methodologies like LEAN and Six Sigma. The ideal candidate has 7-10 years of experience, including 5+ years focusing on LEAN execution. Responsibilities include leading cross-functional teams to implement process improvements, mentoring staff, and managing portfolios of improvement projects. The position offers a competitive salary and various benefits including health and wellness support.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of professional experience in process improvement.
• 5+ years in LEAN execution, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify process inefficiencies and design solutions.
• Lead end-to-end process improvement projects.
• Train and mentor staff on process improvement methodologies.

Skills

LEAN execution

Six Sigma

Process mapping

Data interpretation

Project management

Analytical problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Statistical analysis tools

Project management software

Job description

The ProcessOptimizationManageris responsible forleading enterprise-wide initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, andbuilda culture of continuous improvement through proven methodologies(LEAN,Six Sigma). This rolewilldevelop anddriveprocessimprovement effortsleveragingrobusttools,frameworksand operatingapproaches toembedcontinuous improvementprinciples across the organizationand drive business value.

Thisrolewillleadand collaborate withcross-functional teamstoidentifyand implement process improvements thateliminatewaste, streamline workflows, and driveincrementalbusinessvalue. With a data-driven and results-oriented approach, the ProcessOptimizationManager will coach and mentorcross functionalteamson how to bestapply structured problem-solving techniques and sustaina culture of continuous improvement.Lean Six Sigmacertification,experience executingcontinuous improvementinitiatives across RetailandSupply ChainOperations,andfamiliarity inleveragingtechnologicalprocess enablers such as RPA, Process Mining, AI, and enhanced operating modelsis highly preferred.

Responsibilities include the following but are not limited to the following:

• Proactivelyidentifyprocessinefficienciesacross the enterpriseandleverage process improvement approaches (LEAN, Six Sigma) to design solutions.
• Architect process improvement effortsand specific improvementplansthatmaximizecompany valueandbusiness impact.
• Lead end-to-end processimprovementprojects to improveefficiency, quality, and other relevant business outcomes Analyze operational, financialand/or process data(trends, root causes, process mapping) to support specific continuous improvement efforts.
• Buildacontinuous improvementcultureacross the organization with standard methods,ongoingmeasurement,and management of process improvementinitiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure project sustainability and long-term adoption of improvements.
• Manage a portfolio of improvement projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, budgets, and timelines.
• Train, coach, and mentor staff inprocess improvementtools and methodologies, to build an internal capability and knowledge base.
• Manage and develop project teams, providing feedback and performance guidance.
• Act asa change agent thatempowersthe enterprise andoperational teams to improve current state operations and drive new value from process improvement methodologies.
• Executive presence and can present findings, recommendations, and results to senior leadership in clear, actionable terms.

Professional Experience & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree inBusiness,Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field (Master’sdegree preferred).
• 7-10 years of professional experience and5+ years in LEAN execution, with at least 2 years in a management or leadership role.
• Proventrack record delivering measurable process improvements and efficiency gains.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and presentation abilities.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive change in a matrixed environment.
• Proficiency with process mapping, statistical analysis tools, and project management software.
• Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple, complex initiatives simultaneously.

Why Guitar Center? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate:

$155,000 - $170,000/yr depending on background and experience.

This position is eligible to participate in the Guitar Center Company bonus program based on Company performance.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.

About Guitar Center

Guitar Center embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to craft lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.

With a career at Guitar Center, you become part of the world's largest multichannel musical instrument retailer. Whether at our Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers, or Support Center, Guitar Center employees have a common goal: to help people find their sound and fill the world with more music.

Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Guitar Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job‑related requirements.

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