Continuous Improvement Manager

We are seeking a Manager, Continuous Improvement to guide Vertex Support Services (VSS) in its CI journey. This role blends hands‑on delivery with capability building, acting as both coach and practitioner to embed a problem‑solving mindset throughout the division. Responsibilities Coaching & Leader Enablement: Coach VSS service line leaders and managers on the practical application of CI principles to solve operational challenges. Deliver training on foundational CI methodologies, including value‑stream mapping, root‑cause analysis, and performance management. Co‑facilitate Kaizen and improvement events with service line leaders, enabling them to lead future events independently. Provide one‑on‑one mentorship to leaders, building confidence in using data and CI tools. Influential Change Leadership: Partner with VSS leadership to develop, communicate, and build buy‑in for a long‑term CI maturity roadmap. Facilitate cross‑functional workshops, secure commitment for initiatives without formal authority, and champion the adoption of a CI‑focused operating rhythm, including a tiered daily huddle system. Document and share success stories and best practices to build momentum and showcase the value of CI. Apply a structured change‑management approach to ensure sustained adoption of improvements. Strategic Improvement Facilitation & Execution: Lead a select set of key, high‑impact improvement projects addressing systemic, client‑facing challenges. Guide teams in creating detailed value‑stream and process maps to visualize workflows, identify waste, and pinpoint bottlenecks. Direct root‑cause problem‑solving exercises using DMAIC for significant client issues. Initiate and manage pilot programs for new processes or technologies, gathering data to validate effectiveness before recommending broader adoption. CI System & Framework Development: Design and introduce a standardized yet flexible problem escalation and resolution framework. Advise on developing meaningful KPIs to measure process health and client impact. Create and manage a strategic improvement project portfolio, providing visibility into progress. Establish a benefits‑realization framework to quantify and report the aggregate value delivered by CI initiatives. Qualifications Required: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations, or related field. 5+ years of dedicated experience in continuous improvement, process excellence, or similar role. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification or equivalent expertise in DMAIC, VSM, Kaizen, RCA. Proven experience coaching and mentoring leaders and teams to build CI capabilities. Successful leadership of cross‑functional improvement initiatives influencing stakeholders without formal authority. Expert facilitation skills for workshops, value‑stream mapping sessions, and Kaizen events. Proficiency in process mapping software (e.g., Microsoft Visio) and data analysis/visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau). Familiarity with AI and automation tools (process mining, workflow automation, generative AI) to identify efficiencies. Preferred: Master’s degree in a related field (MBA, Operations Management, etc.). Experience implementing a lean daily management system in an organization with low initial maturity. Formal training or certification in change‑management methodologies (e.g., Prosci). Experience applying CI principles in a client‑facing B2B service industry. Experience supporting process integration and standardization following a merger or acquisition. Familiarity with project management software such as Asana for tracking improvement portfolios. Benefits Industry‑leading pay and rewards. Unlimited flexible paid time‑off for performance. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits. 401(k) plan with 6% employer match. Mentoring and funding for training and professional development. Inclusive, supportive work environment that values diversity and promotes well‑being. Vertex Education is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Vertex Education