Sr. Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement LeaderWe're seeking a proven Continuous Improvement leader to help shape the future of our operations at Glidewell Dental. This role combines strategic thinking, hands-on problem solving, and cross-functional leadership to drive sustainable improvements across the business. You'll leverage Lean Six Sigma expertise, influence stakeholders at all levels, and deliver operational and financial results that support organizational growth. Essential Functions:Leads moderately complex, cross-functional improvement initiatives aligned with organizational priorities, applying DMAIC, Lean, and structured problem-solving methodologies to optimize processes, redesign workflows, standardize operations, and sustain results.Supports the development and implementation of management systems, operational standards, and process improvements that improve performance visibility, accountability, and execution consistency.Applies Lean Six Sigma, statistical analysis, process observation, and structured problem-solving methods to identify process variation, inefficiencies, constraints, and root causes; evaluate solutions; and drive measurable improvements in productivity, quality, customer experience, lead time, and scalability.Facilitates Kaizen events, workshops, and continuous improvement activities.Develops project charters, business cases, implementation plans, and operational updates for improvement initiatives.Quantifies, validates, tracks, and communicates the operational and financial impact of improvement initiatives including productivity, labor, capacity, quality, cost, inventory, and lead-time improvements.Develops control plans, performance measures, standard work, and management routines to sustain improvements and prevent regression.Coaches leaders, project teams, and developing CI practitioners in structured problem solving, Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, project execution, and change management.Collaborates with cross-functional teams to support strategic initiatives and sustainable business results.Serves as a continuous improvement resource to leaders and teams in the application of Lean, Six Sigma, Operational Excellence, and structured problem-solving methodologies.Special Requirements/Certification:Six Sigma Black Belt Certification from ASQ or a recognized equivalent organization preferred; demonstrated Black Belt-level project experience required.Shingo Institute or equivalent Operational Excellence training preferred.PMI PMP Certification preferred.Lean or Operational Excellence certification preferred.Communication Skills:Strong verbal, written, presentation, and facilitation skills, with the ability to communicate complex operational ad analytical concepts across organizational levels.Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the ability to build alignment, support change adoption, and drive accountability without direct authority.Ability to provide constructive feedback and communicate effectively in a multicultural business environment.Proficient English verbal and written communication skills.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Advanced knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, Operational Excellence, and process improvement methodologies.Working knowledge of statistical analysis techniques used in process improvement, including descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, regression, ANOVA, statistical Process Control (SPC), process capability, and measurement system analysis (MSA).Ability to analyze large and moderately complex operational datasets, identify patterns and sources of variation, develop hypotheses, and translate analytical findings into actionable business recommendations.Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DOE) and other advanced analytical techniques preferred.Ability to select and apply appropriate analytical and problem-solving tools based on the nature and complexity of the business problem.Demonstrated ability to lead change across functions, influence stakeholders without direct authority, overcome resistance, and establish ownership for sustained process improvements.Advanced ability to assess end-to-end processes using tools such as process mapping, value stream mapping, capacity analysis, bottleneck/constraint analysis, root cause analysis, and waste identification.Strong understanding of Daily Management Systems, KPI management, Leader Standard Work, Visual Management, and structured problem solving.Strong analytical, systems-thinking, and organizational assessment capability.Strong business and financial acumen, including the ability to quantify operational and financial impact and develop credible business for improvement opportunities.Pay Range: $134,000 to $150,000/yrGlidewell Laboratories is the industry leader in dental technology due to our agility, speed, and cutting edge technology. We work in a fast-paced and highly sought-after employee-friendly work environment. Behind all of this success is an amazing group of people who are passionate about bringing innovation to the marketplace, while providing quality and affordability to better the lives of people all over the world. If you share in our passion for teamwork and a vision for excellence, let's talk about a rewarding career at Glidewell!In addition are the following generous employee benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K with company match, company-paid life insurance, additional onsite dental services, vacation, holiday, and sick time, employee gym (with fitness classes and meditation room), employee medical/wellness center (with massage therapy and acupuncture), two company subsidized cafes, Internet cafes, employee lounges with big screen TVs, game tables, fun company sponsored events, a diverse work environment with over forty nationalities represented, and much more!Glidewell Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits any kind of unlawful discrimination and harassment. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to provide employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other status protected by the statutes, rules, and regulations in the locations where it operates. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io. Please indicate the specifics of the assistance needed.Note to Current employees: Please apply through Employee Transfer Application to complete the transfer request form.