Continuous Improvement Manager
Trelleborg is a world leader in engineered polymer solutions for almost every industry on the planet. And we are where we are because our talents brought us here. By specializing in the polymer engineering that makes innovation and application possible, Trelleborg works closely with leading industry brands to accelerate their performance, drive their business forward—and along the way, shape the industry and progress that will benefit humankind in the exciting years ahead. Our people are Shaping Industry from the Inside. Why don´t you join us?
Summary of the Role:
The Continuous Improvement Manager is a strategic operations leader responsible for driving measurable EBIT improvements through throughput optimization, COGS reduction, and capital efficiency. Reporting to the Director of Operations and serving as a key member of the Site Leadership Team (SLT), this role leads the Engineering and Innovation & Development teams to deliver the Manufacturing Excellence (ME) program’s target of 4% annualized savings to sales — excluding reductions in indirect labor or theoretical engineering savings. The CI Manager will develop and implement short- and long-term operational strategies, oversee energy and carbon footprint initiatives, and ensure all improvements translate into real, auditable financial impact.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the Engineering and Innovation & Development teams to deliver throughput and cost improvements across all production areas.
- Own the ME program execution, including monthly reporting, savings validation, and alignment with corporate targets.
- Identify and implement CI projects that reduce direct labor, material waste, and COGS, with clear linkage to EBIT improvement.
- Develop and execute CapEx strategies that maximize ROI and support operational efficiency.
- Partner with Finance to ensure all savings are quantifiable, traceable, and excluded from indirect labor or theoretical gains.
- Analyze production flow, labor utilization, and equipment performance to identify bottlenecks and unlock capacity.
- Drive plant-wide adoption of Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies with a focus on measurable outcomes.
- Collaborate with SLT and GM to shape operational strategy, investment priorities, and long-range improvement plans.
- Monitor and report on facility energy usage and carbon footprint, identifying opportunities for sustainability-driven savings.
Champion a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and operational excellence across all functions.
Education and Experience:
- Required: BS in Industrial, Mechanical, or Manufacturing Engineering; or 10+ years of relevant CI/engineering leadership experience.
- Preferred: 5+ years in a manufacturing leadership role with direct responsibility for throughput, cost reduction, and CapEx planning.
- Proven track record of delivering EBIT-impacting CI programs in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
Competencies:
Leadership: | Inspires teams, drives accountability, and leads cross-functional initiatives. |
Strategic Thinking: | Connects CI efforts to broader business goals and long-term operational strategy. |
Financial Acumen: | Understands P&L impact, validates savings, and partners with Finance. |
Technical Capacity: | Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, automation, and throughput levers. |
Results Orientation: | Relentless focus on measurable outcomes and operational impact. |
Collaboration: | Builds strong partnerships across Operations, Finance, and SLT. |
Ethical Conduct: | Maintains transparency, integrity, and compliance in all improvement efforts. |
Communication: | Clearly articulates goals, progress, and challenges to all levels of the organization. |
Travel:
- Minimal travel is expected, but may be required up to 10%
Application:
Last Application Date 6/28/2026
As an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disability status.
This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. Green Card Holder), Political Asylee or Refugee.
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