What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operational Excellence Lead position at SWM International?
Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. (SWM) is a multinational, diversified engineered materials company which conduct business and operates worldwide including: Brazil, China, France, Luxemburg, Poland, and the United States. We are proud to serve customers who make a world of difference in the markets they operate in, and the products they improve. Every day, our papers are used in a diverse range of applications and industries around the world.
Our employees share a passion for our products, customers, and the success of our organization. We generate the ideas, create the innovative solutions, manufacture the products, and deliver the services that have made SWM a global leader for decades. We are problem solvers, innovators, and manufacturing experts.
Reports to: Plant Operations Manager
Employment Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Operational Excellence Leader drives continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and process optimization across the facility. This role focuses on implementing Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence methodologies to improve quality, reduce waste, enhance safety, and increase productivity. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a strong manufacturing background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to influence teams across all levels of the organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operational excellence initiatives across the plant.
- Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and efficiency improvements using Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI tools.
- Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to standardize best practices and establish performance metrics.
- Drive cross-functional projects to improve manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and enhance product quality and consistency.
- Mentor, coach, and develop employees in continuous improvement methods and operational excellence principles.
- Partner with leadership to align operational initiatives with overall business strategy and production goals.
- Facilitate Kaizen events, root cause analyses, and other CI workshops to solve operational challenges.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production efficiency, scrap reduction, downtime reduction, and safety performance.
- Support the implementation of digital manufacturing tools and data-driven decision-making to optimize operational performance.
- Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and operational discipline throughout the facility.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.
- Minimum 5–7 years of experience in manufacturing operations with a focus on continuous improvement or operational excellence.
- Experience in paper, specialty paper, or related manufacturing industries is highly desirable.
Preferred Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence at all organizational levels.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage and motivate employees.
- Knowledge of safety, environmental, and quality standards relevant to manufacturing.
Certifications:
Lean or Six Sigma Certification.
What We Offer
Competitive compensation and benefits.
Professional growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
Collaborative and safety-focused workplace culture.
SWM International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SWM International prohibits Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including same sex); pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; marital status; citizenship status; veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law