Continuous Improvement Manager at Akebono Brake Corporation – Glasgow, Kentucky

• Lead the Akebono Production System (APS) through continuous improvement by identifying and eliminating waste based on standardized work while focusing on linear, incremental improvements within the process.

Essential Duties / Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive continuous improvement strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Identify opportunities for improvement across processes, workflows, and systems.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing projects to eliminate waste, reduce costs, and improve quality.
• Conduct Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Kaizen events, and root cause analyses.
• Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress and measure the success of improvement initiatives.
• Prepare and present regular reports on process improvement metrics and achievements.
• Provide training to employees at all levels on Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement tools.
• Mentor and coach team members to foster a problem-solving mindset.
• Collaborate with production, quality, supply chain, and other departments to identify and implement best practices.
• Facilitate communication between teams to ensure alignment and shared goals.
• Lead efforts to instill a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Support employees in adopting new processes and sustaining changes.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Preference will be given to those candidates who have achieved a minimum of an Associate’s Degree in a technical field of study.
• Six (+) years of technical knowledge of manufacturing processes in an automotive supplier work environment.

SPECIAL SKILLS OR EXPERIENCE DESIRED:

• Proven ability to work in a positive team environment is required.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Good personal computer knowledge using Microsoft Office software and QAD.
• Must be able to demonstrate good decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Must be willing to work any shift needed to support the needs of the business.
• Proficiency in continuous improvement tools (e.g., DMAIC, PDCA, 5S, Kanban).
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools such as Excel, Power BI, or Minitab.