Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager Plymouth, MN, US, 55447 – Regular – Full-Time (Hybrid) WAGNER, a leading manufacturer of innovative coating technology with over 2,000 employees nationwide, continues to drive excellence through lean manufacturing and continuous improvement. The Continuous Improvement Manager is a strategic operations role responsible for transforming and sustaining Wagner into a world-class lean manufacturing enterprise, collaborating across all functions to align focus and deliver real-time feedback and measurable results. Location Plymouth, Minnesota (5% travel, including some international travel) Benefits Starting at 4 weeks PTO per year 401(k) with company match Medical + Company HSA contribution Wellness Program Dental Vision Life Insurance Disability 6 weeks parental leave Long-Term Care Insurance Tuition Reimbursement Employee Resource Groups Pay Salary range: $90,000 – $115,000 plus profit sharing. Position Objective The Continuous Improvement Manager will orchestrate the lean transformation, ensuring Wagner has the systems, processes, tools, and metrics that yield measurable performance improvements. The role includes coaching, mentoring, and training teams on continuous improvement methodologies. Job Duties / Responsibilities Provide leadership and strategic thinking for implementing continuous improvement initiatives. Lead the continuous improvement process, fostering a culture that supports financial goals. Implement operating processes and systems that deliver consistent year-over-year improvement opportunities. Identify and define scope of continuous improvement planning and activities. Support the organization in identifying opportunities and work closely with technical resources to drive efficiencies. Taught and modeled root‑cause analysis, problem solving, and recurrence prevention. Act as a change agent to manage challenges and eliminate waste. Coach and guide cross‑functional teams to resolve assigned projects. Monitor data and metrics to identify waste and prioritize action plans. Teach and model Lean, CI, and Six Sigma tools; facilitate kaizen and problem‑solving events. Provide documentation and project updates to stakeholders. Perform other duties as assigned. Required Experience and Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, management, or related field (or equivalent experience). 5+ years in an operations environment, with at least 2+ years of successful leadership in continuous improvement/lean initiatives. Proven experience leading cross‑functional improvement initiatives across manufacturing, purchasing, logistics, safety, quality, engineering, etc. Deep knowledge of lean manufacturing/CI methodologies with ability to develop and deliver training. Strong analytical and business judgment with demonstrated problem‑solving skills. Ability to influence, mentor, and coach to achieve results across the enterprise. Experience designing and implementing operational metrics such as a balanced scorecard. Track record of driving results aligned with business growth strategies. Ability to solve complex problems and prioritize actions timely. Establish clear direction, set ambitious objectives, and bring out the best in people. Mobile and willing to take on broader assignments for professional growth. Required Interpersonal & Behavioral Skills High emotional intelligence: influence, negotiate, resolve disagreements, collaborate. Strong problem‑solving and concentration under pressure. Sound judgment and discretion handling confidential information. Ability to work independently, prioritize, and maintain detail orientation. Bias for action and inspire others. Optimistic, set aggressive targets, and find ways to achieve them. Communicate compelling vision and purposeful sense of purpose. Build strong relationships across business groups; support and foster change. Work with a diverse group of employees and customers. Preferred Qualifications MBA Lean Manager Certified Additional Information Location: Plymouth, Minnesota. May require 5% travel, some internationally. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Wagner is dedicated to the ongoing journey of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are an equal‑opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to be themselves. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require any accommodation throughout the hiring process, please let us know how we can assist you. #J-18808-Ljbffr