As a Lean Change agent you will help drive the Lean transformation within Essential, with a focus on embedding Lean philosophy where people are engaged to improve processes continuously to advance business impact. You will support and guide teams and leaders with implementing the daily management system, coach them in developing problem solving techniques and Lean behavior. Together with management you will build internal capabilities to improve processes and results by cross functional teams on a daily basis. You act as a role model for the lean way, The Essential Way of working and respectfully challenge the status quo.

The Director Continuous Improvement is responsible for driving and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement through the implementation of lean methodologies and principles aligned with organizational goals. This role involves leading and facilitating lean initiatives, training and mentoring employees, and identifying and eliminating waste across the organization. The Director Continuous Improvement will play a critical role to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities, improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall performance. The ideal candidate will be a strong leader with a proven track record of successfully implementing lean methodologies and achieving measurable results.

Responsibilities:

Lean Strategy development and implementation:
Develop and implement a comprehensive lean strategy aligned with organizational goals.
Lead and facilitate the implementation of lean tools and techniques (e.g., 5S, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, Kanban, Standard Work, Root Cause Analysis etc.).
Identify and prioritize opportunities for process improvement and waste reduction.
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and measure the impact of lean initiatives.
Develop and maintain standardized work processes and procedures.

Facilitation and Project Management:

Lead and facilitate lean events (Kaizen events, workshops, etc.) to drive process improvements.
Manage multiple lean projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and achievement of objectives.
Participate in budget development and planning and develop project plans and timelines.
Monitor project progress and report on results.
Lead the development and implementation of visual management systems.

Leadership, coaching, training and mentoring:

Provide leadership and guidance to cross-functional teams on lean principles and methodologies.
Develop and deliver lean training programs to employees at all levels of the organization and build internal lean capabilities through formal and informal training.
Mentor and coach employees in lean continuous improvement methodologies, principles and tools.
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.
Lead organizational change efforts.

Data analysis, measurement and reporting:

Collect and analyze current processes, procedures, metrics and data to identify areas for improvement.
Work with management to develop and implement solutions to streamline processes and eliminate waste.
Develop and maintain methods and systems for measuring improvement outcomes and develop and present reports on the progress and impact of lean initiatives.
Use data-driven decision-making to prioritize and implement improvement projects.
Ensure accurate and timely reporting of project status and results.
Promote problem-solving methodologies.

Stakeholder Collaboration:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for lean initiatives.
Communicate effectively with all levels of the organization about the progress and impact of lean projects.
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external partners.
Ensure cross functional collaboration and open communication throughout the organization.

Qualifications:

A passion for continuous improvement and a commitment to excellence
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum 10 years of experience in lean management or continuous improvement.
Proven track record of successfully implementing lean methodologies and achieving measurable results.
Strong knowledge of lean tools and techniques.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team and ability to lead and manage change.
Lean certification (e.g., Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt) preferred or ability to obtain certification within 12 months of employment.
Strong project management skills and knowledge of various business functions (operations, quality, etc.)

Essential Utilities, Inc.

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Director Continuous Improvement