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Continuous Improvement Manager
- Newell Brands (Winchester, VA)
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**Job ID:** 8650
Alternate Locations:
**Newell Brands** is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Yankee Candle® - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action: Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impact—supported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day.
Primary Purpose of Position:
As a key member of the Winchester Plant Leadership Team (PLT), the **_Leader of Continuous Improvement_** will drive the deployment and execution of Continuous Improvement (CI), Lean, and Productivity strategies across three facilities, including manufacturing and distribution operations. This role is responsible for delivering measurable performance improvements by building capabilities, coaching teams, and implementing Lean Sigma and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) methodologies. The Leader will collaborate across functions to embed CI principles into the organizational culture and operations.
Responsibilities:
+ Lead the development and execution of a CI Master Plan aligned with long- and short-term business objectives.
+ Identify and implement productivity, cost-reduction, and Value-Added Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives.
+ Ensure CI plans are directly linked to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), strategic goals, and annual productivity targets.
+ Drive operational efficiency by optimizing the use of facilities, personnel, equipment, and ERP systems.
+ Establish and monitor weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual CI deployment objectives.
+ Align CI initiatives with the broader Division Strategic Plan.
+ Coach and support leadership in integrating CI methodologies into daily operations.
+ Facilitate cross-functional collaboration to address prioritized business opportunities.
+ Select, train, and mentor CI “champions” in Newell’s PEAK (Performance, Engagement, Achievement, Knowledge) methodology.
+ Teach and guide teams in the use of DMAIC problem-solving tools.
+ Collaborate with CI leaders across the organization to share and adopt best practices.
+ Ensure compliance with corporate governance, legal requirements, and regulatory standards.
Qualifications:
+ Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline; Master’s degree preferred.
+ Minimum of 3 years of experience in TPM, Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement.
+ At least 3 years of project management experience.
+ Proven track record of leading productivity and cost-saving initiatives with cumulative savings exceeding $3M.
+ Strong knowledge of Lean, TPM, and Six Sigma methodologies.
+ Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
+ Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP
Skills:
+ **Strategic Thinking** – Ability to align CI initiatives with organizational goals and long-term strategy.
+ **Leadership & Coaching** – Skilled in mentoring teams and influencing leaders to adopt CI practices.
+ **Project Management** – Strong planning, execution, and tracking skills for complex initiatives.
+ **Analytical Problem Solving** – Proficient in DMAIC and root cause analysis tools.
+ **Communication** – Excellent verbal and written communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
+ **Change Management** – Ability to lead and sustain change in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
+ **Data-Driven Decision Making** – Comfortable using metrics and KPIs to guide improvement efforts. **Collaboration** – Effective at building relationships across departments and levels.
+ **Training & Facilitation** – Capable of designing and delivering CI training programs.
+ **ERP Systems Knowledge** – Familiarity with SAP or similar systems to support process optimization
Physical Requirements & Work Environment:
+ Primarily a sedentary role with regular use of a computer and other office equipment.
+ Occasional walking within the manufacturing facility to observe operations or attend meetings.
+ Ability to sit, stand, and move between office and plant environments throughout the workday.
+ May require occasional lifting of office supplies or documents up to 25 lbs.
+ Standard office environment with climate control; occasional exposure to manufacturing areas with noise, dust, and moving machinery.
+ Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends during peak periods or critical project timelines.
+ Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering production areas.
Newell Brands (NASDAQ: NWL) is a leading global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Rubbermaid, Sharpie, Graco, Coleman, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Yankee Candle, Paper Mate, FoodSaver, Dymo, EXPO, Elmer’s, Oster, NUK, Spontex and Campingaz. We are focused on delighting consumers by lighting up everyday moments. Newell Brands and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.
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