Role Summary
The Lean Lead will develop, set, and implement a transformational and continuous improvement strategy for our Cookeville facility, which manufactures flow‑control products. This role ensures consistent deployment of Lean methodology across the entire site, including approximately 15 assembly lines, in alignment with senior management KPIs, best practices, and HSE requirements. The Lean Lead will manage key improvement projects, strengthen team engagement, and build strong working relationships across all functions to advance operational performance.
Responsibilities
• Create and implement best‑practice Lean vision, strategy, policies, processes, and procedures to improve operational performance.
• Deploy core Lean tools with emphasis on value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, and continuous/material flow.
• Support and implement new business initiatives and evaluate their operational impact.
• Develop and execute a robust continuous improvement strategy in partnership with cross‑functional teams.
• Support the mission, targets, and long‑term objectives of the company.
• Track and report on production, projects, risks, dependencies, budgets, resources, issues, milestones, and required investments.
• Define and implement actions needed to ensure successful project execution and conformity to standards.
• Plan and conduct continuous Lean training and development for employees.
• Identify business improvement opportunities across the plant.
• Ensure all CI activities meet local and company HSE policies and regulatory requirements.
• Build and strengthen a culture of engagement, problem‑solving, and accountability.
• Contribute to annual development plans, organizational capability planning, and succession planning.
• Motivate, coach, and support teams toward operational success and sustained improvements.
• Manage and influence budgets, forecasts, and cost‑follow‑up activities.
• Anticipate and address obstacles that could impact targets or timelines.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support optimal performance.
• Maintain an effective interface with all departmental staff across Engineering, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, EHS, and other functions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
• Strong hands‑on experience with value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, and continuous/material flow in a manufacturing environment.
• Excellent leadership and team‑management skills, with the ability to lead and influence cross‑functional groups.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and follow‑up abilities.
• Competence in problem solving, team building, and decision making.
• Commercial and financial awareness, including experience managing budgets and forecasting.
• Background in manufacturing or engineering environments, including people management and project management.
• Knowledge of ERP systems; SAP production modules preferred.
• BS or BA degree in a relevant field and 8–10 years of related experience.
Preferred Experience / Skills
• Proven success applying value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, and continuous/material flow in a plant environment.
• Experience driving continuous improvement initiatives or Lean transformations.
• Strong ability to coach, motivate, and engage teams at all levels.
• Ability to influence without authority and build strong cross‑functional relationships.
• Experience identifying and sustaining improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Familiarity with high‑mix assembly environments or flow‑control product manufacturing.
Benefits Starting from Day 1
* Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment.