Director of Continuous Improvement - Chicago

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead and execute high-impact continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities, implementing solutions, and ensuring measurable, sustained results are achieved across the assigned region. 

• Take ownership of projects from the initial problem definition stage through to the successful sustainment of improvements, maintaining accountability for outcomes throughout the entire lifecycle. 

• Deliver validated cost savings and operational improvements, ensuring that all changes produce tangible financial and performance benefits for the organization. 

• Embed standard work practices and drive the adoption of these processes across multiple locations, promoting consistency and reliability in operations. 

• Manage and coach continuous improvement resources by providing hands-on guidance, mentoring, and support to ensure effective execution of initiatives while remaining actively involved in the work. 

• Collaborate directly with Regional Senior Vice Presidents and operators to align improvement efforts with regional goals and operational needs. 

• Apply Lean problem-solving methods to address real operational challenges, implementing proven techniques to drive efficiency and effectiveness. 

• Track results, adoption, and sustainability of process changes, monitoring progress to ensure that improvements are maintained and continue to deliver value over time. 

• Perform other duties as assigned to support organization goals.  

Success Measures: 

• Validated financial savings 

• Improvement in business objectives (i.e. safety, reliability, labor efficiency) 

• Sustained adoption of process changes 

• Reduced operational variability 

 
 
Qualifications: 

• A minimum of seven years of experience in operations or continuous improvement (CI) is . This background demonstrates a strong understanding of operational processes and improvement methodologies. 

• Candidates must possess at least three years of hands-on people leadership experience. This includes direct management, coaching, and development of team members within an operational or CI setting. 

• Experience in transportation or multi-site operations is preferred. Familiarity with these environments supports effective execution of improvement initiatives across multiple locations or within logistics operations. 

• Lean or CI experience is . Candidates should have a proven track record applying Lean methodologies or continuous improvement practices to drive operational excellence. 

Role Philosophy: 
This role exists to get results. The Director, Operational Standards is expected to be present in the operation, own outcomes, and deliver real value every day. 

Soft skills Competencies: 

• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills. 

• Decision Making, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving 

• Time -Management and Organizational skills 

• Adaptability 

The Company believes that each of our employees makes a significant contribution to the success of the organization and our clients. This position description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but an employee’s contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities. It is the Company’s expectation that each employee will help whenever necessary to ensure the success of the organization’s endeavors.