KPO Leader

Pursuit Aerospace is a global manufacturer of complex aircraft engine components that are developed through highly integrated processes. We are seeking a skilled KPO Leader in our Newburyport, MA location.

About Us:

Founded on a commitment to relentless, continuous improvement and extraordinary customer service, we at Pursuit Aerospace pride ourselves on competitive cost structures, exceptional on-time delivery, and industry-leading quality.

The Pursuit family of companies has cultivated long-term relationships with our customers around the world through respect, teamwork, technology, and trust. We are driven to develop industry-leading process innovations and manufacturing techniques on behalf of our customers.

About the Opportunity:

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Leader (also known in Pursuit as a Kaizen Promotion Office (KPO) Leader) for our Newburyport location. The KPO Leader will drive continuous improvement initiatives by developing and implementing Kaizen methodologies and the Pursuit Production System (PPS). This role will focus on fostering a workplace culture that empowers employees at all levels to streamline and enhance safety, quality, delivery, and cost. The KPO Leader will collaborate with leadership and cross-functional teams to drive process improvements and sustain operational excellence.

At Pursuit Aerospace, a leading contract manufacturer of high-quality, precision-machined and fabricated aerospace parts, we need individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments, embrace challenges, and are dedicated to building strong customer relationships. If you have a can-do attitude and are a solutions-focused professional ready to make a positive impact, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Responsibilities:

• Acts as a business partner to the site GM and key member of the site leadership team, providing strategic insights and data-driven recommendations to drive business and operational improvements.
• Serves as a change agent, embedding Kaizen and continuous improvement principles across all levels of the organization and ensuring initiatives are aligned with organizational goals and sustained.
• Embraces servant leadership and respect for humanity principles to build collaboration and improve sustainability of process improvements.
• Executes initiatives from Division KPO Director and provides feedback on progress.
• Develops single piece flow lines for high volume/high revenue product lines using Kaizen principles such as standard work, right-sized equipment and check-as-you-go gaging.
• Leads and delivers training and mentorship programs on Kaizen principles and PPS to build a culture of continuous improvement.
• Leads and drives Kaizen workshops and continuous improvement activities, ensuring all relevant stakeholders are involved.
• Incorporates and maintains strict compliance to PPS and developed standards via daily management.
• Ensures accountability for Kaizen Newspaper Action Items, driving follow-through and measurable results.
• Manages and maintains Kaizen resources, training materials, and standard templates to support ongoing improvement efforts.
• Champions the identification, planning, and execution of cost-out initiatives to improve operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, a related field or an alternate degree with relevant experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrated leadership in Kaizen, Continuous Improvement, Operations, Engineering or Quality.
• Proficiency with Kaizen tools, such as 3P, TAKT Time, Standard Work Combination Sheets, Standard WIP and Moonshine.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience leading Kaizen Workshop teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading cost reduction projects and process improvement initiatives.
• Strong analytical skills, including data-driven analysis and performance metrics.
• Problem-solving skills, such as 5-Whys, 8D, Shainin, etc.
• Experience managing change to improve the business while positively impacting the employee experience.
• Experience mentoring and coaching others.
• Strong interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to provide leadership and strategic direction as part of the site leadership team.

Working Conditions:

• This role requires up to 10% travel, including visits to other company sites, suppliers, or industry events as needed. International travel may be necessary.
• Working conditions typically include both shop floor and office environments.
• Personal protective equipment (e.g., safety glasses and safety shoes) is required on the shop floor.
• Lifting up to 20-30 lbs. may be occasionally required.
• Occasional weekend and evening work may be required to accommodate priorities, deadlines, and schedules.

Compensation & Benefits:

We offer a competitive salary and benefit package, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, paid time off, and company-paid holidays.

Must be willing and able to work onsite full-time at our Newburyport, MA location. This position is eligible for relocation.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Pursuit Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment, and we do not tolerate workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.