Director, Integration & Functional Continuous Improvement (CI)

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a highly experienced and driven Director of Integration & Functional Continuous Improvement (CI) to lead enterprise-level initiatives focused on optimizing operational efficiency and supporting strategic growth through functional integration during mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This role combines deep expertise in Lean principles, Kaizen, Six Sigma, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) with the strategic oversight required to integrate functions and processes post-acquisition and beyond.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of delivering measurable improvements in operational performance while also leading cross-functional integration efforts during M&A transactions. This individual will serve as a key thought leader and change agent across the organization, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

What will you be doing?

Functional Continuous Improvement (CI) Leadership

• Lead the development, implementation, and sustainability of Lean, Six Sigma, or similar CI programs across corporate functions.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and drive structured problem-solving sessions using tools like root cause analysis, 5 Whys, and A3.
• Conduct and oversee Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to identify bottlenecks and eliminate non-value-added activities.
• Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and design dashboards to track and report progress on CI initiatives.
• Mentor and coach cross-functional teams on CI methodologies and tools to build internal capability.
• Champion a Lean culture by embedding CI thinking into everyday operations and decision-making.

M&A Integration

• Serve as the functional integration lead during mergers, acquisitions, or divestitures.
• Develop integration playbooks and lead due diligence assessments to identify operational risks and synergies.
• Coordinate with department leaders to align people, processes, and systems across acquired entities.
• Ensure seamless functional integration across operations, IT, finance, HR, supply chain, and other core business areas.
• Monitor post-merger integration progress and drive resolution of integration-related issues.

TRAVEL: Normal expected travel is approximately 25%, including visits to acquisition sites, operational facilities, and regional offices.

Who are You?

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent CI training.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in continuous improvement, operational excellence, or business transformation roles.
• Proven experience leading Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and Kaizen events.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience supporting merger & acquisition integration efforts, including due diligence and post-merger functional integration.

PREFERRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Experience in a manufacturing or logistics company.
• Change management certification (e.g., PROSCI) or equivalent experience.
• Exposure to ERP and business process integration.

We understand that not all candidates may meet the requirements listed above. If you believe you have the skills and experience necessary to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

What competencies will you need?

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrixed environment.
• Exceptional communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.

We are Offering...

As part of our team here, as well as receiving a competitive base salary, you will also participate in a generous performance related bonus plan. In addition, you will also receive a 401k plan with company matching, Life Insurance, and Medical Insurance as well as 9 holidays.

The typical base salary range for this position is anticipated to be between $169,232 and $253,848

• CARE – We care about our customers, our colleagues, our environment and our place in the world at large.
• CHOOSE – We empower our employees to make choices and take calculated risks; we choose to hire, to recognize and reward people who demonstrate good judgment and choose to have good attitudes and strong work ethics.
• COLLABORATE – We value teamwork, with our customers and our colleagues, in pursuit of excellence and improvement in everything we do.
• COMMIT – We make commitments and hold ourselves accountable, individually and as teams, to deliver on them.
• CHALLENGE – We establish ambitious goals, take calculated risks, maintain high standards and seek to exceed expectations.