Operational Excellence Manager

Operational Excellence Manager US-TX-Lampasas Job ID: 2026-10474 Type: Regular Full-Time # of Openings: 1 Lampasas Plant Overview The factory Operational Excellence (OpEx) Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and sustaining Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) strategies to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, reduce food loss, and enhance the overall operational efficiency (OEE) in our food manufacturing facility. This position will lead the factory continuous improvement culture in achieving our TPM program objectives and total delivered cost (TDC) reductions at the factory. This role will be required to perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned, which may evolve based on organizational needs. Responsibilities Position Essential Duties and Responsibilies TPM Program Leadership Drive process improvement and team development through the implementation of AFNA TPM reference standards for all launched pillars (AM, PM, FI, E&T, Leadership, etc.) with the factory leaders and department teams Coordinate and conduct training sessions based on AFNA TPM reference standards to all levels of the factory Lead and drive TPM related activities and discussions with hourly and management leaders to facilitate and promote change to meet business targets Perform internal assessments and coaching of the health and well-being of the TPM standards that are used Communicate and elevate to our central OpEx organization for additional detailedtraining and assistance of our AFNA TPM reference standards FI Pillar Leadership Lead the loss identification and prioritization of losses (e.g. OEE, downtime, raw material loss, labor loss, etc.) through effective visual and verbal sharing and guidance with the factory leaders and team members Ensure effective root cause analysis and sustainable actions are taking place by guiding and developing applicable factory personnel. Own the understanding, ownership and usage of the key OEE performance indicator within the factory to drive continuous improvement activities Total Delivered Costs (TDC) Leadership Lead the factory’s cross functional TDC program to identify and generate projects and activities to drive annual cost reduction targets Ensure the execution of the cost reduction projects and activities are taking place to meet timeline expectations Provide the appropriate reporting of TDC activities and escalations to our AFNA leaders People Leadership Lead direct reports with clarity and accountability, setting clear expectations, driving alignment to business priorities, and modeling inclusive, values-based leadership. Own performance outcomes, using data and ongoing feedback to drive results, address issues early, and make fair, timely talent decisions. Build organizational capability, developing talent through coaching, succession planning, and intentional investment in future-ready skills. #INDLAM Qualifications Position Qualifications Education, Certifications and Experience An equivalent combination of experience and education will also be considered. Education Education Level | Description 4 Year / Bachelors Degree Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM field or active enrollment in a STEM degree program preferred. Preference will be given to those with a degree in engineering or to those actively enrolled in an engineering program. Other Experience in lieu of degree will be considered. Experience Minimum Years of Experience 4 to 6 years Minimum of 4 years of manufacturing experience in a leadership role, preferably in the food industry. 2 to 4 years Minimum of 2 years of AFNA manufacturing experience in a leadership role preferred. Certifications Certifications in advanced CI tools preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities List any program-based or field knowledge. Include skills/abilities needed to perform the job Knowledge & Skills Strong knowledge of TPM methodology, Lean principles or a continuous improvement program is a must, certifications in advanced CI tools preferred Demonstrated Proficiencies Demonstrated leadership and management skills; ability to motivate, develop, and inspire others Excellent leadership, communication, problem solving skills, and change management Experience successfully identifying, adopting and leading change initiatives and gaining alignmentDemonstrated ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders, peer groups and all factory personnel levels Proven track record of driving results in a factory environment AAP/EEO Statement Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. (AFNA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AFNA does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by stated, federal, or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions for this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned. Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. PI287867098 #J-18808-Ljbffr