Job Location: Hershey, PA Preferred 


Role Summary:
The Program Manager - Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement will lead the line launch of Hershey Lean Manufacturing Program team and build the capabilities of the plant leadership team to own the process of embedding Hershey Lean processes through subsequent line launches. Leverage deep expertise in Hershey Lean and work with the Operations Excellence (OpEx) Manager to lead launch on the lead line.  The Program Manager - Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement will develop an equal partnership with the Operational Excellence Manager and the Business Unit Leaders in successfully launching and operating the business unit under the Hershey Lean principles and processes. 

Responsibilities:

•Promote the philosophies of Hershey Lean to the site leadership, management, and employee staff as a process to continuously improve all operations. •Develop and manage the detailed work-plan for the lead line launch and full plant roll-out Work with the OpEx Manager and Plant Manager to develop the Compelling Business Need (CBN) during the lead line launch. •Lead the implementation of Daily Direction Setting (DDS), Daily Management System (DMS) and CBN tools and processes as part of lead line launch Coach and train OpEx Manager on Hershey Lean concepts, implementation, best practices and roll-out process Meet weekly with the Plant Manager, BU Leader and OpEx Mgr to review progress on launch, outline upcoming activities and engage on specific Lean related topics that may require plant leadership input, advice or decisions. •Ensure adherence to critical program elements to ensure continuity. Partner with Global and Site pillar Leads to develop and implement standards, phase progression and assessment tools to create a Zero loss culture

Qualifications:

•Knowledge and experience in CI systems and methodologies including TPM, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma •Proven leadership skills, including strong influencing skills without direct reporting •Exceptionally strong drive, sense of urgency, energy level and problem-solving abilities will be critical for his/her success •Strong communication skills – both written (e.g. PowerPoint) and oral •Demonstrated ability to use a “coaching” mindset to build capability and confidence in team in utilizing the Hershey Lean system principles •Ability to adapt to multiple and changing priorities •Ability to operate seamlessly in all levels of the plant organizations •Ability to travel 20% of the time to out-of-town locations.

Experience & Education:

•Bachelor’s degree required; a degree in an engineering or related discipline strongly preferred. Master’s degree preferred. •Minimum of 5+ years of experience in manufacturing (preferably in food processing engineering).