Value Stream Manager

Job Overview:
Search Solution Group is seeking a Value Stream Manager on behalf of our client, a global leader in the design, development, and manufacturing of highly engineered pumps, sprayers, and dispensing closure solutions. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing manufacturing operations while driving operational excellence, continuous improvement, employee development, and financial performance. The Value Stream Manager will lead cross-functional manufacturing teams, ensure environmental health and safety compliance, and develop strategic plans that improve productivity, quality, and cost efficiency across the operation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the daily operations of manufacturing departments to ensure production, quality, safety, and financial objectives are achieved.
• Foster a strong Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) culture by proactively identifying risks, implementing corrective actions, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Promote employee engagement by coaching, mentoring, developing, and motivating direct reports while building a strong internal talent pipeline.
• Direct operational activities to ensure compliance with company policies, ISO standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Monitor, analyze, and improve production efficiencies, throughput, and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Develop and manage departmental business plans, staffing plans, budgets, forecasts, and capital expenditures.
• Evaluate manufacturing methods and implement strategies to improve product quality, responsiveness, cost efficiency, and operational growth.
• Analyze operational data and recommend process improvements for manufacturing and materials management.
• Develop and execute strategic action plans aligned with annual business objectives.
• Manage departmental budgets and capital investment projects to support long-term operational goals.
• Research, evaluate, and implement new technologies, equipment, and automation to improve manufacturing capabilities.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, Operational Excellence, and continuous improvement programs.
• Facilitate problem-solving activities across departments using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and production teams to improve operational performance.
• Develop a long-term technology roadmap to support future manufacturing growth and efficiency.

Requirements include:
Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Experience in plastic injection molding and/or high-speed automated assembly environments preferred.
• Experience managing engineers, technicians, supervisors, and production associates.
• Experience managing manufacturing operations through a Manufacturing Execution System (MES), with Mattec experience preferred.
• Proven track record of driving Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience managing departmental budgets, capital projects, and operational planning.

Skills:

• Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development skills.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong project management and strategic planning capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing manufacturing environment.
• Strong financial and operational management skills.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive accountability.

Certifications:

• Six Sigma and/or Lean Manufacturing certification or formal training preferred.
• Additional manufacturing or operations management certifications are a plus.

Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, 5S methodologies, and continuous improvement practices.
• Understanding of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), preferably Mattec.
• Knowledge of injection molding processes, tooling, and polymer materials.
• Understanding of ISO standards, quality systems, and manufacturing best practices.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations applicable to manufacturing.
• Familiarity with capital planning, operational budgeting, and production forecasting.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic leadership and decision-making.
• Operational excellence and continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and talent development abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Results-oriented with a focus on safety, quality, and productivity.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to lead organizational change and process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to build high-performing teams.
• Strong accountability, adaptability, and problem-solving capabilities.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click the "Apply" button at the top right of your screen. Alternatively, you can email your application to View email address on click.appcast.io . Please ensure to include your resume and any other relevant documents or information that showcase your qualifications and suitability for the role. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and look forward to reviewing your application.

Company Overview:
Company Industry: Manufacturing

Location: Thomaston, CT

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Search Solution Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status in our hiring process or employment practices. We believe that a diverse workforce brings unique perspectives and strengths, driving innovation and growth. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to our team.

Disclaimer:
Please note that the job description provided is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to meet the evolving needs of the organization and to ensure the successful completion of projects and objectives.