Continuous Improvement Manager - Charlotte, NC

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Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.

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Job Summary

Fresh & Ready Foods is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Continuous Improvement Manager to lead Lean transformation initiatives across all locations. This role is critical to identifying and eliminating waste, improving performance, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement throughout manufacturing and business operations. Reporting to the Director of Continuous Improvement, you’ll be a hands-on leader who drives strategic change, mentors teams, and delivers measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

Lean Strategy & Execution

• Develop and implement Lean Transformation Plans, including value stream mapping
• Lead Gemba walks and enhance visual management in both production and office environments
• Drive leadership accountability for eliminating flow inhibitors and implementing CI initiatives
• Coordinate kaizen events and Lean Manufacturing projects across sites

Coaching & Culture Building

• Mentor site leadership to foster a culture of continuous improvement
• Provide Lean training and coaching to employees at all levels
• Promote open communication and employee involvement in Lean efforts

Operational Excellence

• Support standard work, 5S, and continuous flow in operations and office functions
• Integrate Lean thinking into enterprise-level value stream management
• Partner with Site Operations Leadership to develop annual strategy plans
• Collaborate with new product development teams to ensure design for manufacturability

Performance & Reporting

• Track and report Lean metrics and true savings across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Cash
• Stay current with Lean methodologies and technologies through ongoing education and benchmarking
• Serve as a resource for implementation challenges and drive progress on Lean plans

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 8+ years of experience in food manufacturing
• Proven track record of leading successful continuous improvement initiatives

Desirable Characteristics

• Positive energy and a proactive change agent
• Hands-on, results-driven, and forward-thinking
• Confident, autonomous, and capable of working independently

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, and communication
• Occasional exposure to mechanical parts, cold environments, and loud noise levels
• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities

Associates at Fresh & Ready Foods are offered many fantastic benefits.

Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

Full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Fresh and Ready Foods maintains a drug-free workplace.