Director of Efficiency & Optimization

The Director of Efficiency & Optimization is responsible for championing a culture of continuous improvement across all facets of the organization. This role leverages Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to systematically analyze operations, eliminate inefficiencies, reduce variation, and deliver measurable value through optimized processes. The Director will collaborate with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to design, standardize, and scale best-in-class processes that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and drive sustainable growth. This position is both strategic and hands-on—balancing visionsetting with the direct execution of process improvements— while ensuring all initiatives align with company objectives, regulatory compliance, and long-term scalability driving continuous improvement across all facets of the organization by analyzing operational workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing technology and policy-based solutions.
Primary Responsibilities and Key Deliverables: 1. Process Improvement & Optimization • Lead end-to-end process mapping, value stream mapping, and time–motion studies to identify waste, redundancies, and bottlenecks. • Apply Lean principles (5S, Kanban, Just-in-Time, Value Stream Mapping) to reduce waste and increase process flow efficiency. • Apply Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology to minimize process variation and improve quality. • Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) using tools such as Fishbone Diagrams, 5 Whys, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). • Implement Kaizen events to drive rapid improvement in targeted operational areas. 2. Standardization & Compliance • Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensure consistent adherence across all departments. • Establish process controls to maintain operational stability post-improvement. • Ensure workflows are fully compliant with regulatory and safety standards while remaining operationally efficient. 3. Technology Integration • Partner with IT and vendors to implement automation, digital tools, RPA (Robotic Process Automation), and systems integrations. • Evaluate technology solutions using ROI-based metrics to ensure optimal resource allocation. 4. Performance Measurement • Define and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and process performance metrics such as cycle time, defect rate, and cost savings. • Implement real-time dashboards for leadership visibility into operational performance. • Prepare quarterly ROI reports detailing the measurable benefits of implemented improvements. 5. Change Management & Training • Lead organizational change management initiatives to ensure successful adoption of process changes. • Deliver training on Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques to build internal capability. • Mentor process improvement teams, including Green Belts, Black Belts, and project leaders. 6. Cross-Functional Leadership • Work closely with executives to align operational initiatives with strategic priorities. • Collaborate with field operations, back-office teams, and customer service departments to optimize end-to-end workflows. • Serve as a key advisor to leadership on operational excellence best practices. 7. Leadership, Team Development & Collaboration • Serve as a mentor and resource to HR staff, regional leaders, and department heads across all locations and service lines. • Promote cross-departmental collaboration and alignment between HR, Finance, Operations, and IT to ensure seamless execution of projects and initiatives. • Participate in Executive Team meetings and contribute to company-wide planning, goal tracking, and operational reviews. Minimum Education and Experience: Education & Certifications: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (required) • MBA or Master’s in Operational Excellence, Organizational Leadership, or Technology Management (preferred) • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt (required or strongly preferred) • PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 (preferred) • Certified Business Process Professional (CBPP) – desirable • Change Management Certification (e.g., Prosci) – preferred • ITIL Certification – advantageous if interfacing with IT service management Experience, Skills & Competencies: • 7–10+ years of experience in process improvement, operations management, or business transformation. • Demonstrated success in leading enterprise wide Lean Six Sigma projects with measurable cost savings and quality improvements. • Proven ability to implement structured problem-solving techniques and data-driven decisionmaking. • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization. • Experience in labor-intensive industries (e.g., maintenance, manufacturing, logistics) is strongly preferred. • High proficiency in process analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Power BI, Tableau, Visio).