Director, Continuous Improvement - Americas

Location: This is a remote based role from anywhere in the US.Key ResponsibilitiesEnterprise Lean TransformationLead deployment of the company’s Lean operating system across manufacturing, distribution, and commercial functionsEstablish and manage a Kaizen pipeline aligned to strategic priorities and value streamsDrive enterprise initiatives that improve SQDIPC performanceEmbed Lean thinking and structured problem-solving to support long-term cultural transformationKaizen Leadership & ExecutionLead and facilitate high-impact Kaizen events across operational and transactional processesIdentify improvement opportunities through value stream mapping, Gemba observation, and data analysisDevelop and execute rapid improvement plans to accelerate performanceEnsure improvements are standardized, sustained, and scalableCapability BuildingBuild organizational Lean capability through coaching, training, and mentorshipDevelop Lean champions and continuous improvement practitioners across the networkFoster a culture of disciplined problem-solvingCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, and Commercial teams to drive initiativesAlign Lean efforts with business strategy and operational prioritiesCollaborate with senior leaders (e.g., Operational Excellence, Procurement, PMO) to ensure enterprise alignmentGovernance & Performance ManagementEstablish KPIs, dashboards, and governance structures to track progressDrive accountability and ensure sustainability of improvement initiativesReport progress and insights to senior leadershipQualificationsExperience10+ years leading Lean transformations in manufacturing or supply chain environmentsProven success implementing TPS/Lean across multi-site operationsDemonstrated impact on SQDIPC performance metricsExperience leading Kaizen events across both operational and transactional functionsStrong track record partnering with senior leaders and cross-functional teamsTechnical Expertise Deep knowledge of Lean/TPS tools and methodologies, including:KaizenValue Stream MappingRoot Cause AnalysisStandard Work / Transactional Process ImprovementVisual ManagementFlow and Pull SystemsLeadership CapabilitiesStrong change leadership and transformation skillsAbility to influence and coach at all organizational levelsExcellent facilitation, communication, and business acumenEducationBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or related field preferredLean certification (e.g., Black Belt, Lean Practitioner) preferredTravel: 60%+