Value Stream Manager - Plainwell Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Plainwell (MI); On-site; USD 108,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Plainwell, MI, is seeking an experienced Value Stream Manager to drive end-to-end performance in West Michigan manufacturing environments. This role focuses on Lean transformation, waste reduction, and KPI-driven improvement across value streams.

The Opportunity highlights collaboration with cross-functional teams, budget management, and adherence to safety and quality standards. Candidates bring 5+ years in manufacturing operations, Lean training, and a track record

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of manufacturing operations experience, with leadership.
• Proven Lean manufacturing knowledge with practical application.
• Data-driven approach to improvements.
• Strong communication and cross-functional leadership.

Responsibilities

• Drive end-to-end value stream performance aligned with strategic objectives.
• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams to foster continuous improvement.
• Implement Lean principles to optimize flow, reduce waste, and boost efficiency.
• Develop and monitor KPIs to track progress and identify gaps.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions.
• Manage resource allocation and budget for the value stream.
• Champion problem-solving methods like A3 and DMAIC.
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance within the value stream.

Skills

Lean principles

Leadership

Data analysis

Continuous improvement

Cross-functional teams

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

Value stream mapping tools

Job description

Value Stream Manager | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $108,000 - $156,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for excelling in value stream manager? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Plainwell, seeking experienced Value Stream Managers to strengthen their teams.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are working with companies in Plainwell that are adding Value Stream Managers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive end-to-end value stream performance, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.


• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement.


• Implement Lean manufacturing principles to optimize flow, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.


• Develop and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.


• Collaborate with stakeholders across the organization to identify bottlenecks and implement effective solutions.


• Manage resource allocation and budget for the value stream to achieve operational targets.


• Champion problem-solving initiatives using structured methodologies (e.g., A3, DMAIC).


• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and compliance standards within the value stream.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.


• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.


• Proven experience in Lean manufacturing principles and their practical application (e.g., Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, 5S).


• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives and achieve measurable results.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively lead cross-functional teams.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification


• Experience with simulation software or value stream mapping tools


• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., AI, IoT)


• Demonstrated ability to mentor and coach teams in continuous improvement methodologies

Job Titles That Should Apply

Value Stream Manager, Value Stream Lead, Lean-Agile Leader, Agile Coach (Value Stream), Flow Manager, Portfolio Flow Manager, Release Train Engineer (RTE) - Value Stream, SAFe Value Stream Engineer, Operations Excellence Manager (Value Stream), Process Improvement Manager (Value Stream

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.