Lean Manager

Description

Summary: The Manager I – Lean will lead and deploy Lean principles across plant operations to eliminate waste, improve performance, and sustain a culture of continuous improvement. Highlights: 1. Lead and implement Lean process improvement initiatives across plant operations. 2. Develop, implement, and sustain Lean methodologies for operational excellence. 3. Partner with department leaders to improve process performance and quality. Littelfuse (NASDAQ: LFUS) is a diversified industrial technology manufacturing company shaping solutions for the safe and efficient transfer of electrical energy. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA, we serve customers across industrial, transportation, and electronics markets worldwide. With approximately 16,000 employees we design and manufacture innovative technologies that support electrification, energy efficiency, and advanced automation. Our global reach is matched by a culture that empowers innovation and long\-term growth. Guided by our principles We Care, We Succeed With Our Customers, and We Own the Outcome, we work collaboratively, think boldly, and deliver solutions that move industries forward. As a **Manager I – Lean**, you will lead and deploy Lean principles across plant operations to eliminate waste, improve operational performance, and sustain a culture of continuous improvement. You will be accountable for defining and executing Lean initiatives, developing metrics to track performance, and partnering closely with cross‑functional teams to drive root cause resolution, cost reduction, and process optimization. This role requires strong facilitation, analytical, and communication skills, as well as the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels within a manufacturing environment. **About Your Job** ------------------ * Lead and implement Lean process improvement initiatives across plant operations, including manufacturing and office areas. * Apply Lean principles to identify waste, improve productivity, and enhance overall operational performance. * Define the scope of Lean initiatives and create execution plans, including deliverables, timelines, and expected outcomes. * Support root cause analysis, corrective actions, and decision‑making processes in collaboration with functional leaders. * Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress before, during, and after Lean implementations. * Communicate progress and results through regular metrics reporting to staff and leadership. * Drive cost reduction initiatives through continuous improvement efforts and best‑practice deployment. Key Responsibilities **Lean Deployment \& Continuous Improvement** Develop, implement, and sustain Lean methodologies to support continuous improvement and operational excellence. **Project Planning \& Execution** Define Lean initiative scope, create detailed work plans, and ensure timely execution of improvement activities. **Metrics \& Performance Tracking** Develop and maintain metrics to measure process performance, improvement sustainability, and opportunity identification. **Training \& Capability Building** Create and deliver Lean training programs (Weeks A, B, C, and D), presentations, and tools for all organizational levels. **Cross‑Functional Collaboration** Partner with department leaders to improve process performance, quality, and alignment with business objectives. **Cost Reduction \& Value Creation** Support and drive cost reduction initiatives through waste elimination, data analysis, and standardized Lean tools. **About You** * Bachelor’s degree required. * 3–5 years of experience in Lean, Continuous Improvement, or Six Sigma environments. * Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and the ability to apply and train them across the organization. * Experience executing Lean training and development programs. * Recognized as a strong collaborator with the ability to influence and persuade at all levels of the organization. * Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify root causes, and implement sustainable solutions. * Strong facilitation, presentation, and communication skills. * High level of commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. **Key Competencies** * Results‑oriented / Action‑oriented * Innovative and creative thinker * Motivates and influences teams * Comfortable dealing with ambiguity * Customer‑focused mindset * Strong problem‑solving and planning skills **Lean Tools Experience** * Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen * 6S, A3, 3P * SMED * Line balancing and workload balancing * Heijunka * Office Lean Enterprise *We are an equal opportunity employer that takes pride in giving every associate the means and courage to make a difference — everywhere, every day.* \#LI\-KRL At Littelfuse, we support employee growth and development. Guided by our culture principles, our teams work together to deliver value for customers and make a positive impact in the communities where we operate. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow and contribute. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, performance\-based incentives, flexible work arrangements, and development opportunities.