Process Improvement Manager

Description & Requirements

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE : SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose : Innovate Boldly.

Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

The Opportunity :

The Process Improvement Manager functions as a critical role in supporting Smurfit Westrock’s commitment to operational excellence.

This individual will act as a change agent to elevate business performance and deliver high impact results and develop a culture of continuous improvement.

Success requires a leader who can effectively drive change in a fast-paced environment utilizing process improvement methodologies and tools.

Responsibilities include developing a process improvement strategy, identifying high impact improvement opportunities, executing projects, and building a culture of continuous improvement.

The ability to influence and lead others is critical. Expertise in process improvement methodology and knowledge of quality management systems is a must.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock :

• Partner with site leaders to ensure site process improvement priorities are aligned with overall business strategy and goals.
• Leverage a zero-loss mindset to identify and prioritize areas of improvement.
• Deliver value by both leading and supporting the focused execution of process improvement projects.
• Manage the local pipeline of improvement projects aligned to productivity targets.
• Work with site leaders to prioritize and assign resources to ensure project success.
• Build capability in others through coaching and mentoring project leaders and teams.
• Support implementation of enterprise initiatives including Daily Management System, Problem-Solving Practices, and Reliability Excellence.
• Coordinate regular progress reviews of process improvement projects with project leaders and site leadership.
• Function as a liaison to the divisional Operational Excellence team.
• Tracking and reporting of results including cost / productivity benefits.
• Ensuring all projects and savings are properly documented in the WestRock productivity tracker.
• Sharing best practices within and outside of the site.
• Supporting the enterprise Learning & Development framework, processes, and tools in partnership with operations and support of technical floor trainers.

What you need to succeed :

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in a Technical field - Preferred
• Prior experience in a manufacturing role - Required
• Paper and packaging experience is a plus.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred but not required. Will be required to complete Smurfit Westrock Yellow Belt and Green Belt training within 6 months of hire and become certified within 18 months.
• Knowledge and skill of continuous improvement tools including structured problem-solving methodology
• Experience with leading team-based process improvement projects for manufacturing applications with proven results.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to lead and influence to drive positive change
• Demonstrated ability to coach, teach, and mentor others
• Basic proficiency with standard MS Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Time management and organization skills

What we offer :

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies, and potential.
• Benefits package to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k with match and more!
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.

Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.