Continuous Improvement Manager

dnata is one of the world’s largest air services providers. Established in 1959, the company ensures the aviation industry operates smoothly and efficiently in 127 airports. Offering ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services in 35 countries across six continents, dnata is a trusted partner for over 300 airline customers around the world. Each day, the company handles over 1,900 flights, moves over 8,500 tons of cargo, books over 16,000 hotel stays, and uplifts over 320,000 meals. As a Continuous Improvement Manager at dnata Catering, you will drive operational excellence and enhance efficiencies within our aviation catering operations. With a keen eye for process improvement and a passion for driving positive change, you will play a pivotal role in identifying areas of improvement and implementing strategies to optimize productivity, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, you will lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives, utilizing lean methodologies, data analysis, and best practices. Your expertise in process mapping, root cause analysis, and performance metrics will be critical in identifying bottlenecks and implementing innovative solutions. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and implementing training programs to enhance employee skills and knowledge, fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. By monitoring performance metrics, analyzing data, and providing actionable insights, you will enable dnata Catering to make informed decisions and drive sustainable improvements. Your ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels, including front-line employees and senior management, will be vital in building strong relationships and driving a culture of continuous improvement. As a Continuous Improvement Manager, you will contribute to the success of dnata Catering by implementing strategies that streamline operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and position the company as a leader in the aviation catering industry. Essential Functions and Responsibilities Responsible for analyzing material and information flow for the operations unit to identify opportunities for improvement in productivity, material consumption, other operation expenses, quality, safety, and space utilization. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Plans and guides Unit management in productivity, material, waste, safety, and quality improvement initiatives; analyzes material and information flows; explores opportunities in productivity, material consumption, other operation expenses, and space utilization; quantifies the effects of improved processes, workflows and fore mentioned opportunities. Support and drive continuous process improvements utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles to maximize departmental efficiencies, minimize waste and improve safety. Communicate with unit management and leadership team on implementation of changes. Ensure relevance and availability of Production System Road maps and blueprints. Perform diagnostics on significant cost drivers, including material and labor. Make documented proposals for improvements and collaborate with unit management on the implementation of changes; responsible for supporting management and associates in the overall change process. Actively practice change management and participate in the Unit’s performance management system and dialogue; present progress and plans to company executives; liaise with corporate and area Continuous Improvement resources. Propose and keep up with company Best Practices and benchmark initiatives. Coach other Continuous Improvement staff and lead training and presentation sessions. Train and build capability in all levels of the plant regarding Lean Manufacturing. Work on all related training materials and collaborate with other team members to identify improvements, additions, corrections, or clarifications to the training material provided. Use Lean Manufacturing tools and techniques, such as 8 Waste (Muda), Just in Time (takt-flow-pull), Value Stream Mapping, Kanban system, Problem Solving, FIFO, and 5s workplace organization, including layout changes when necessary. Nonessential Functions Other duties as assigned by management. Education A bachelor's degree preferred or a High School diploma with 10 years’ experience within the airline industry or lean manufacturing. Qualifications Experience working in a high volume, manufacturing, food production, restaurant, or catering environment preferred. Experience with leading projects, people across organizations, maintaining mandatory standards to ensure the safety of products and processes, and improving product quality required. Experience analyzing operations and their cost drivers, analyzing material and information flows, and analyzing productivity, material consumption, and operation expenses required. Experience with Lean Manufacturing techniques, including "Just in Time" (takt-flow-pull), 5S and workplace organization, and value stream mapping and Kanban system preferred. Strong organizational, analytical, and leadership skills required. Must be innovative in making changes to the operation as needed to improve the work environment. SERV Safe Certification preferred or the ability to obtain SERV Safe Certification. Travel: as needed during projects. Competencies Required to Be Successful in the Job Thinking – Information Search and analysis & problem resolution skills. Engaging – Understanding others. Team Leadership and Developing People Inspiring – Influencing and building relationships, Motivating, and Inspiring. Achieving – Delivering business results under pressure. Championing Performance Improvement and Customer Focus Demonstrated Values to be Successful in the Position. While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is continuously asked to multi-task under time limits. Position requires constant attention to precise details and accuracy of specified standards including following simple to complex (more than 3 steps) instructions, and concentration which frequently extends beyond 30 minutes at a time. This position also requires constant attendance and punctuality – is consistently at work and on time. Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan. Meets productivity standards; completes work in a timely manner; strives to increase productivity; works quickly. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Safety and Security – observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly. Work Environment The essential functions of this position are performed indoors. The noise level in the work environment can range from minimal to loud. We believe that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to creating a strong workplace and community. At dnata, we’re proud that our workforce is as diverse as the customers we serve. And we’re committed to nurturing your talent with mentoring, volunteer and professional development opportunities. We welcome everyone. Our employee resource groups are one of the many ways we champion diversity and inclusion at dnata. Notice Regarding Background Checks (State Law Disclosures) dnata Catering may obtain consumer reports and/or investigative consumer reports about applicants or employees for employment purposes, in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.) and applicable state laws. California: Pursuant to the California Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (Cal. Civ. Code § 1786 et seq.), dnata Catering may obtain an investigative consumer report that may include information regarding your character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living. You have the right to request a copy of any report obtained. New York: In accordance with Article 23-A of the New York Correction Law and the New York Human Rights Law, background checks will be conducted only as permitted by law, and any employment decision based on criminal history will follow required legal standards and notice requirements. Massachusetts: Pursuant to the Massachusetts Consumer Reporting Act (M.G.L. c. 93, § 52 et seq.) and the Massachusetts CORI statute (M.G.L. c. 6, § 172), dnata Catering may obtain a consumer report or criminal offender record information for employment purposes, consistent with state law. Applicants may request a copy of any report obtained. New Jersey: In accordance with the New Jersey Opportunity to Compete Act (N.J.S.A. 34:6B-11 et seq.) and applicable consumer reporting laws, background checks will be conducted only as permitted by law, and applicants will receive required notices and rights regarding any consumer report obtained. Texas: Background checks may be conducted in accordance with applicable Texas law and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Applicants will receive required disclosures and authorizations prior to any consumer report being obtained. Tennessee: Background checks may be conducted in accordance with applicable Tennessee law and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Applicants will receive required disclosures and authorizations prior to any consumer report being obtained. #J-18808-Ljbffr