Passionateabout joining a genuinely innovative and fast-growing technology company that delivers the most advanced sustainable PVB products?
Excited about being part of a team that'scommitted to innovation, sustainability, and a collaborative work environment-while creating a greener future
Hungry to always find a better way of doing things?
About the position
Shark Solutions, a pioneer and global leader in laminated glass and PVB recycling, seeks a highly experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to lead and drive operational excellence initiatives across three production sites in the United States. You'll be instrumental in supporting the continued sustainable growth of Shark's rapidly expanding business in the United States. The role requires a strategic and hands-on individual with a robust background in CI methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen and extensive knowledge of recycling and production environments. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to optimize equipment effectiveness (OEE) and reduce waste to save cost and achievement of sustainability targets across sites in line with the company's mission. This position is based at Shark's US HQ in Lavonia, GA, and reports to the Operations Director-U.S. with a dotted line to the COO at the European HQ. Up to 30% of travel is expected, mainly domestic and some international. Founded in Denmark in 2005, Shark Solutions operates in Denmark, Belgium, and the United States, serving clients worldwide. For more information, watch this video and visit Shark-Solutions.com
Strategic & Tactical Responsibilities
Operational Excellent Strategy:
Develop and implement the overall strategy for operational excellence across all US production sites to ensure continuous improvement and optimal performance.
Align operational excellence initiatives with the company's long-term objectives and sustainability goals.
Lead and inspire teams to adopt best practices in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other improvement methodologies.
Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement:
Identify and analyze critical production and operational inefficiencies and lead initiatives to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives projects to reduce waste, minimize downtime, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Standardize processes across the three production sites to ensure consistency in output and quality.
Performance Measurement & KPIs:
Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor the performance of production sites and track progress on continuous improvement initiatives.
Create and maintain regular reporting mechanisms to provide visibility on operational performance, cost savings, and areas for improvement.
Make data-driven decisions and ensure that corrective actions are implemented effectively.
Collaboration & Cross-Functional Work:
Work closely with production managers, site leaders, and cross-functional teams (such as engineering, supply chain, and quality) to integrate operational excellence strategies into day-to-day operations.
Foster a culture of collaboration, engagement, and empowerment among employees at all levels to encourage continuous improvement.
Training & Development:
Develop and deliver training programs to upskill employees on Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence tools and methodologies.
Mentor and coach teams in problem-solving techniques and continuous improvement methodologies to build internal capabilities.
Innovation & Sustainability:
Lead initiatives to incorporate innovative technologies and sustainable practices into production processes, aligning with the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.
Drive projects to improve recycling efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste in recycling laminated glass and PVB.
Budgeting & Cost Management:
Manage operational budgets for continuous improvement projects and implement cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or safety.
Track the financial impact of improvement initiatives and deliver measurable cost savings across production sites.
Qualifications
Your Work Experience & Education:
Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations management, industrial engineering, or a related field. A master's degree or MBA is highly desirable.
Minimum 10 years in operations management within manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role focused on Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
Proven experience in the recycling, manufacturing, or similar industrial sectors, with a strong preference for experience in laminated glass or PVB recycling.
Extensive knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt or higher certification preferred), Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies.
Proven track record of driving measurable efficiency, quality, and cost reduction improvements.
Experience working in a multicultural, international company is a plus
Your Skills, Traits & Style:
Demonstrated leadership in driving cross-functional collaboration and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across geographically dispersed teams."
Demonstrated ability to solve complex operational challenges through data-driven decision-making.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders and communicate complex operational strategies to technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels.
Fluent in English (Spanish language skills are a plus)
What We Offer is More than Just a Job....
An excellent team-focused work environment with visibility for your efforts and professional growth opportunities.
An opportunity to join a truly innovative and fast-growing international company.
Attractive compensation package including performance-based bonus, health care benefits, and flexible work hours
Equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.