Project Manager, Process Optimization

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Process Optimization Project Manager is responsible for leading enterprise-wide initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen a culture of continuous improvement through proven methodologies such as Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma. This role focuses on developing and executing process optimization tools, frameworks, and operating cadences that embed Kaizen principles across the organization.

This individual will lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams in identifying and implementing process improvements that eliminate waste, streamline workflows, and drive measurable business impact. With a data-driven and results-oriented approach, the Process Optimization Project Manager will coach and mentor teams to apply structured problem-solving techniques and sustain long-term improvements. Experience executing Kaizen initiatives across Retail, Supply Chain, Merchandising, Store, and Contact Center environments is highly preferred, along with familiarity in leveraging advanced process optimization enablers such as RPA, Process Mining, AI, and enhanced operating models to deliver strategic value.

Core responsibilities include the following but are not limited to:

• Lead end-to-end process optimization projects across multiple functions to improve efficiency, quality, and other relevant business outcomes.
• Apply process optimization methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) to identify process improvement opportunities and execution steps to drive improvement.
• Build ongoing methodologies, tools and operations to manage and measure the impact of initiatives.
• Manage a portfolio of improvement projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, budgets, and timelines.
• Serve as a change agent, promoting a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
• Analyze operational, financial or process data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for optimization.
• Design target state process flows and the cross-functional implementation activities to enable across all Process, People, and Technology considerations.
• Present findings, recommendations, and results to senior leadership in clear, actionable terms.
• Train, coach, and mentor staff in Process Optimization tools and methodologies, to build an internal capability and knowledge base.
• Manage and develop project teams, providing feedback and performance guidance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure project sustainability and long-term adoption of improvements.

Professional Experience & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification preferred (Master Black Belt a plus).
• 5+ years of professional experience in Lean Six Sigma project execution, with at least 2 years in a management or leadership role.
• Proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings, process improvements, and efficiency gains.
• Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple, complex initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive change in a matrixed environment.
• Proficiency with process mapping, statistical analysis tools and project management software.

Why Guitar Center? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave-take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate: $155,000 - $170,000/yr depending on background and experience.

This position is eligible to participate in the Guitar Center Company bonus program based on Company performance.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.

About Guitar Center

Guitar Center embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to craft lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.

Why join us?

With a career at Guitar Center, you become part of the world's largest multichannel musical instrument retailer. Whether at our Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers, or Support Center, Guitar Center employees have a common goal: to help people find their sound and fill the world with more music.

Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Guitar Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job‐related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.