Category Operational Excellence Manager - Materials

Category Operational Excellence Manager

The Category Operational Excellence Manager is responsible for identifying, executing, sustaining, and championing the continuous improvement of quality, cost and customer satisfaction through identification, utilization, and optimization of input materials (i.e. packaging, ingredients) we use to make our finished products across the enterprise (all categories). This role's primary focus is on people, processes, and data, and how they integrate input materials with equipment and the inputs/outputs of manufacturing processes to achieve the desired quality and cost improvements. Success of the role heavily depends on the involvement and cross-functional collaboration with teams such as operations, sourcing, packaging engineering, FP&A, and R&D as well as our external suppliers to manage the optimization of material specifications to create high quality products per the customer specifications and enable plant teams to achieve their quality, delivery and cost targets.

The role champions measurement, methods, data analysis/analytics, problem resolution, utilization/presentation of data that easily translates into action, positive partner behaviors and partner empowerment, and process discipline. We are looking for this individual to bring/develop a level of business expertise to the space they are championingin this case the Materials part of the business.

Familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures as well as how it connects with other parts of the business. Helps own the concepts and interactions around Material Identification/Development, Optimization, Integration, Testing and Launch along with the DMAIC/CIPEC processes to plan and execute projects. Will perform a variety of tasks in the overall space that may include leading and directing the work of others. Leverages lean and six sigma disciplines where applicable and is focused heavily on utilizing the right tools with the right people at the right times. Someone successful in this role will be self-driven and motivated while executing with a wide degree of latitude in creative behaviors and influential leadership. Typically reports to a Vice President or Director. Management and hands-on involvement in materials, product, process and equipment deployment at a company, category, or regional level in multiple locations across the Americas is expected.

This role is 100% on-site (Monday-Friday) located at our Home Office in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Relocation Benefits: Receive a $10,000 relocation bonus PLUS a generous relocation package if relocating more than 50 miles for this position.

About our Green Bay, WI Home Office:

You'll find lots to love in our beautiful home office in downtown Green Bay, Wisconsin. Our jeans-friendly environment has indoor and outdoor collaboration spaces, state-of-the-art R&D and sensory labs, culinary kitchens, a pilot plant, innovation center and more. Take advantage of outdoor workspaces. Sample and provide feedback on new products from our R&D team. Enjoy free coffee, soda and popcorn. Take a short walk to restaurants, breweries, the YMCA and a weekly farmer's market on the scenic Fox River. You can even see Lambeau Field from our top floor.

What you'll do:

• Develop SFI Culture - Train, coach, evaluate and reinforce Operational Excellence principles with partners and Team Members.
• Lead efforts in improving cost and quality initiatives by utilizing structured approach such as Lean Six Sigma to drive results and impact
• Material Requirements - Work with SFI and Suppliers' teams in identifying and communicating material requirements and updating process controls to reflect best practices.
• Governmental Regulations - Be knowledgeable of various government regulations that must be complied with, i.e., OSHA, USDA, FDA, EPA, EEOC, OFCCP, etc.
• Drive improvements in materials and process using structured methods, business knowledge, and the use of the appropriate tools. Identify and drive process improvements and effectively train and mentor team members in the various aspects of operational excellence (green belt training, statistical management, business knowledge, etc.). Establish processes/systems to monitor the performance of these improvements.
• Management and hands-on involvement in materials, product, process and equipment deployment management at company/category/regional level in multiple locations across the Americas. Daily Operation by being involved in the learning, understanding, and functioning of the daily operational challenges. Understand the core functions of the business and the equipment utilized in the manufacturing space.
• Capital Investment - Work with the VP/Dir, Plant Manager, Team Leaders and Production Supervisors in identifying potential capital and non-capital improvements. Assist with analysis and justification for these projects.

What you will need to succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
• 12+ years experience in engineering, technical, or related area in driving efficiency and improvements in dairy products, processes, and ingredients is highly desired.
• Desire to grow and take on new challenges and opportunities.
• Demonstrated understanding of financial processes and systems.
• Black Belt Certified is required. A mastery of pertinent business knowledge with 12+ years of experience, a track record of driving Operational Excellence, and a willingness to grow in lean six sigma discipline will be considered as well in leu of Black Belt certification.
• Master Black Belt trained and/or certified (desired but optional).
• Project Management trained/experience or willingness to acquire the basic skills/training within 1 year.
• Responsible for deploying, owning, championing, and supporting manufacturing excellence initiatives within area of focus (product manufacturing, business process, organizational competency, etc.).
• Ownership, self-started, self-led mindset, servant mindset.
• A strong bias to action, leadership, and results.
• Travel varies depending on the area of the manufacturing organization being championed. Ability to travel 30% - 50%. Could be higher for short intervals of time depending on business needs.