The HC Companies

The Continuous Improvement Manager leads continuous improvement (CI), materials and quality initiatives within a fast-paced plastics manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for developing and executing CI strategies, leading a team of CI Engineers, and overseeing quality systems to drive operational excellence, efficiency, and product quality across the facility.

Key Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement

• Identify, prioritize, and manage CI projects focused on reducing waste, improving process efficiency, and enhancing product quality. Advise all plant CI teams in successful execution of projects and process improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain) to identify improvement opportunities and implement sustainable solutions.
• Champion a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization. Includes developing and facilitating training programs on Lean tools and CI methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, DMAIC).
• Lead and manage the Continuous Improvement (CI) team, providing direction, coaching, and development opportunities to CI Engineers. Manage summer intern program.
• Participate in annual capital expenditure planning process.
• Track and report on project metrics, cost savings, and CI KPIs.
• Analyze company processes and procedures. Develop process enhancement strategies. Investigate shortfalls, issues, and complaints in current business processes.

Materials

• Test and qualify all new post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. Manage PCR tracking tool. Optimize use of PCR.
• Support trials for use of new materials (e.g. bio-resins, low melt, Solo cup regrind)

Quality

• Ensure ongoing alignment between quality objectives and manufacturing goals to maintain high standards of product consistency and customer satisfaction.
• Support customer quality certification efforts
• Conduct root cause analysis and problem-solving activities related to product quality, process performance, and customer complaints.
• Oversee and ensure compliance with quality management systems.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, business administration or related field (required); Master’s degree or MBA (preferred).
• 5-7 years' experience in process optimization, or operations in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record for leading successful CI and quality improvement initiatives.
• A strategic and analytical mindset.
• An excellent communicator with top-notch presentation skills.
• A thorough understanding of the latest process enhancement strategies.
• Dynamic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Leadership and mentoring skills.
• Experience or certification in Lean or 6-sigma a plus