Mgr Continuous Improvement presso ACH Food Companies, Inc.

Who We Are:

ACH Food Companies, Inc. (ACH) is a prominent consumer packaged goods company. In North America, we market, sell, and manufacture a premier branded portfolio of cooking oils and baking ingredients and foodservice brands in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Mexico.  As the U.S. division of Associated British Foods (ABF), a $20 billion-dollar global food business, we have the backing and resources of a major food company, which empowers us to deliver consistent innovation and sustained growth.  We encourage an environment where people have the autonomy to create and deliver within their business. 

The Role:

 This position is responsible for leading the Continuous Improvement initiatives of the ACH Foods Argo plant.  The Continuous Improvement Manager shall be responsible for providing the expertise and leadership necessary to develop and implement Continuous Improvement initiatives aimed at producing high quality products, in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective environment.

What You’ll Do:

• Develops core continuous improvement strategies that are calibrated and aligned to the overall company CI strategy.
• Develops and implements continuous improvement initiatives with an overall goal of improving the safety, quality, cost, and efficiency metrics.
• Develops business partnerships with various Department Managers such as:  Production, Maintenance, Warehouse, Quality, Sanitation, Engineering and Safety to ensure that resources are allocated appropriately to achieve Continuous Improvement objectives and results.
• Utilization of continuous improvement methodologies such as:  5S, Autonomous Maintenance, SMED (Quick Changeover), value stream mapping, kaizen, and visual controls to achieve desired outcomes.
• Leads cross-functional teams in value stream mapping, kaizen, A3, 5S, SMED, problem solving, and pokayoke.  Drives changes in operations, business processes and quality.
• Researches and analyzes basic and complex issues surrounding the processes and systems of an organization.  Makes recommendations to improve processes, efficiency and practices.
• Development of OEE standards for each packaging line through the use of line capability studies.  This includes downtime tracking at a line and asset level with an overall goal of identifying and prioritizing areas of opportunity.
• Develops, implements, and sustains a root cause analysis model to be utilized throughout the facility with an overall objective of resolving issues at their root cause.  Leads training and educations of the Management Team, as well as, shop floor personnel in utilizing root cause analysis tools such as:  5-Why and fishbone.
• Establishes and maintains systems to ensure quality such as “right the first time” or “no fault forward” programs.
• Works in collaboration with Human Resource leadership to develop and implement education and CI training programs at both the Management and shop floor levels.
• Researches new technologies and procedures to enhance production and best in class continuous improvement approach.
• Leads complex cross functional improvement projects from conception to delivery, on time, and within budget constraints.   Drives accountability of the CI processes in the facilities.
• Coaches and develops Continuous Improvement staff in the plant.
• Leads the development & documentation of standard work at the leadership & shop floor levels.  Improves upon established standards and challenging “status quo” through a collaborative kaizen process.

 What You’ll Need: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Food Manufacturing, Operations Management, or Supply Chain Management.
• 5+ years proven track record leading continuous improvement initiatives in a unionized plant manufacturing environment, including 2 years supervisory experience.  Transformational culture change experience a plus.
• Must be current with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint Knowledge of packaging equipment is desired.  Working knowledge of SAP a plus.
• Six Sigma / Lean Manufacturing certification is desired. (Green Belt / Black Belt)

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive PPO Medical Plan
• Dental Insurance
• Free Vision Insurance
• 100% 401(k) Matching Program
• Eleven (11) paid holidays per year
• On-site Gym

Salary Range:

• Starting Salary Range: $119,800-$151,620. This includes the starting base pay range. Exact compensation will vary based on candidates' qualifications, job related knowledge and experience and specific location.
• Variable Pay is included in compensation package yet not part of base salary range. 

Benefits: 

•  Employees at ACH Food Companies, Inc. enjoy a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to support you throughout your employment.  
• ACH offers a choice of two PPO medical plans with low deductibles and dental coverage.  
• Vision and Life Insurance are provided at no charge.  
• Employees can elect additional life insurance coverage as well as participate in a 401(k) with a company matching contribution.
• Argo Plant employees receive uniforms and appropriate casual business wear with the ACH logo. 
• Argo Plant employees receive yearly safety shoe and safety eyewear reimbursement/credit for purchases.

“All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.”

ACH is an equal opportunity employer. We see value in ensuring a diverse, inclusive, merit-based, and equitable workplace.