Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager

Work Location: Remote (travel required)
Job Category: Operations: Continuous Improvement
Relevant Work Experience: 1-4 years

Job Summary

OTC Industrial Technologies is seeking a driven and experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will lead and execute Lean and continuous improvement (CI) initiatives across multiple OTC sites and internal operations. You will serve as a subject matter expert, change agent, and coach - partnering with operations, sales, and leadership teams to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and deliver measurable business value. This is a high-visibility, high-impact role suited for a proven CI professional who thrives in fast-paced, multi-site environments.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the design, implementation, and sustainment of Lean and CI programs across assigned customer and branch locations.
• Conduct value stream mapping (VSM), kaizen events, Gemba walks, and waste assessments to identify improvement opportunities.
• Drive cultural change and build CI capability by coaching and training employees at all levels on Lean principles and methodologies.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness and ROI of CI initiatives.
• Collaborate with operations, sales, and site leadership to align CI strategies with overall business objectives.
• Facilitate cross-functional improvement teams and manage project portfolios from concept through implementation.
• Create and deliver executive-level presentations and reports on project status, results, and recommendations.
• Standardize best practices and document processes to support scalability and knowledge transfer across the organization.
• Travel to OTC sites (approximately 75%) to provide on-site leadership and support for CI engagements.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, emerging CI tools, and best practices to continuously elevate the CI function.

What You'll Need:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum 5-10 years of hands-on experience in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence roles.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Lean methodologies: 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, SMED, TPM, and Kanban.
• Strong working knowledge of Six Sigma principles; Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional CI projects that deliver quantifiable cost savings and efficiency gains.
• Exceptional facilitation, coaching, and communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels of an organization.
• High proficiency in data analysis tools and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Visio).
• Ability to travel up to 75% domestically to OTC sites.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt certification is preferred
• Experience in industrial distribution, MRO, or supply chain environments is preferred
• Familiarity with change management frameworks (e.g., Kotter, ADKAR) is preferred
• Experience with ERP systems and digital CI tools or platforms is preferred
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.

Perks of Working at OTC Industrial Technologies:

As part of the OTC family, you'll enjoy competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision care coverage and a 401(k) savings plan - Additionally, we offer paid time off, short-and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, tuition assistance, and Employee Assistance Program. You'll also experience exciting opportunities for professional and personal growth and recognition.