Value Stream Manager - Portage Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Portage (MI); On-site; USD 102,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network is partnering with Portage, MI-based manufacturers seeking a Value Stream Manager to lead lean initiatives and optimize end-to-end value delivery. This role focuses on mapping value streams, coaching teams, and driving continuous improvement across operations.

The ideal candidate brings a strong lean background, 5+ years in manufacturing, and proven cross-functional leadership to boost safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with leadership experience.
• Proven Lean manufacturing expertise and practical application (Kaizen, Kanban, VSM).
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Define, map, and optimize value streams to reduce waste and improve flow.
• Lead cross-functional teams to hit safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Develop and implement lean manufacturing principles and tools across the value stream.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
• Coach teams on lean methodologies and problem-solving techniques.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Collaborate with product development and supply chain to optimize end-to-end value delivery.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Cross-functional leadership

Data analysis

Value stream mapping

Continuous improvement

Education

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

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

Value Stream Manager | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $102,000 - $149,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Portage seeking Value Stream Managers.

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 partnering with organizations in Portage that are seeking Value Stream Managers. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with The Pivot Group Network, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Define, map, and optimize value streams to eliminate waste and improve flow.
• Lead cross-functional teams to achieve value stream performance targets for safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Develop and implement lean manufacturing principles and tools throughout the value stream.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement within the value stream.
• Coach and mentor team members on lean methodologies and problem-solving techniques.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across all value stream activities.
• Collaborate with product development and supply chain to ensure alignment and optimize end-to-end value delivery.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
• Proven expertise in Lean manufacturing principles and their practical application (e.g., Kaizen, Kanban, Value Stream Mapping).
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification
• Experience with advanced analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for performance tracking and visualization
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., IoT, AI, robotics) and their application in manufacturing
• Proven ability to mentor and coach teams in continuous improvement methodologies
• Prior experience in a consulting role focused on operational excellence or value stream optimization

Job Titles That Should Apply

Value Stream Manager, Value Stream Lead, Value Stream Director, Lean Manager, Lean Program Manager, Agile Coach, Agile Transformation Lead, Business Process Improvement Manager, Operations Excellence Manager, Continuous Improvement Manager, Process Improvement Lead, Process Optimization Manager, Flow Manager, End-to-End Value Stream Manager, Product Value Stream Manager, Service Value Stream Manager, IT Value Stream Manager

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.