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Successful incumbent will be capable of translating business strategy into specific long and short term plans and drive execution through the manufacturing sites. This role will be pivotal in ...

The Director of Continuous Improvement will develop metrics that provide data for process and/or service measurement all while collecting data to identify root cause of problems. You will be the ...

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Director Of Continuous Improvement information

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$11K

$139.7K

$183.5K

How much do director of continuous improvement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of continuous improvement in the United States is $139,679.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,500.00 and $157,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a continuous improvement director do?

A continuous improvement director oversees initiatives to enhance processes, efficiency, and quality within an organization. They analyze workflows, implement best practices, and lead teams to achieve operational excellence, often using tools like Lean or Six Sigma. The role requires strong leadership, analytical skills, and a focus on measurable results.

How much does a continuous improvement specialist make?

A continuous improvement specialist typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries for a Director of Continuous Improvement are generally higher, often exceeding $100,000 with additional benefits and bonuses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Continuous Improvement, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Continuous Improvement, you need expertise in process optimization, Lean Six Sigma methodologies, and strong analytical skills, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools, data visualization software, and Lean Six Sigma certifications (such as Black Belt) are commonly required. Exceptional leadership, change management, and communication skills set top performers apart in driving organizational transformation. These capabilities ensure the effective implementation of initiatives that boost efficiency, quality, and sustained competitive advantage.

What does a Director of Continuous Improvement do?

A Director of Continuous Improvement leads initiatives to enhance organizational processes, efficiency, and quality. They analyze existing workflows, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or other methodologies to drive operational excellence. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, measuring results, and fostering a culture of ongoing development and innovation within the organization.

How much does a VP of continuous improvement make?

A Vice President of Continuous Improvement typically earns between $120,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on the industry, company size, and location. Compensation may also include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, reflecting the seniority and strategic importance of the role.

How does a Director of Continuous Improvement typically collaborate with other departments to drive organizational change?

A Director of Continuous Improvement works closely with various departments—such as operations, quality assurance, and human resources—to identify inefficiencies and implement process enhancements. They often lead cross-functional teams, facilitate workshops, and use data-driven methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma to align goals and drive sustainable improvements. Effective communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as the role involves influencing stakeholders and securing buy-in for change initiatives across the organization.

What is the difference between Director Of Continuous Improvement vs Process Improvement Manager?

AspectDirector Of Continuous ImprovementProcess Improvement Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, often with certifications like Lean, Six Sigma Black BeltUsually holds a bachelor's degree, with Lean or Six Sigma certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in multiple departments, overseeing large-scale initiativesOperational focus within specific teams or processes, implementing improvements
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, healthcare, and large corporationsFound in similar industries, often reporting to a Director or VP

The main difference is that the Director Of Continuous Improvement holds a higher strategic role, overseeing company-wide initiatives, while the Process Improvement Manager focuses on specific process enhancements within teams. Both roles require Lean and Six Sigma expertise but differ in scope and leadership level.

What is a CI director?

A CI (Continuous Improvement) Director is a leadership role responsible for developing and implementing strategies to enhance operational efficiency, quality, and productivity within an organization. They often oversee process improvement initiatives, utilize tools like Lean or Six Sigma, and collaborate across departments to foster a culture of ongoing improvement.
More about Director Of Continuous Improvement jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Of Continuous Improvement jobs? Cities with the most Director Of Continuous Improvement job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Of Continuous Improvement jobs? The most popular types of Of Continuous Improvement jobs are:
What states have the most Director Of Continuous Improvement jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Of Continuous Improvement jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director Of Continuous Improvement job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,679 per year, or $67.2 per hour.

Director of Continuous Improvement

Hearthside Food Solutions LLC

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Hearthside Food Solutions rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 434 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Summary
The Director, Continuous Improvement is a strategic leader responsible for defining, advancing, and sustaining enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives across assigned platforms. This role partners closely with Plant and Functional Leadership to embed a high-performance culture grounded in Lean, Agile, and data-driven decision-making.
This leader drives the execution and long-term sustainment of the Maker's Pride Performance System, ensuring consistent application across manufacturing and support functions. By leading large-scale transformation initiatives and developing internal capabilities, the Director enhances safety performance, improves first-pass quality, reduces waste and customer complaints, and increases overall operational efficiency and throughput.
The role is instrumental in building organizational capability, strengthening leadership pipelines, and accelerating results through disciplined execution, effective coaching, and standardization of best practices.
Key Responsibilities
  • Partner with senior leadership to develop and execute strategic initiatives aligned to operational excellence and business objectives
  • Lead the deployment, standardization, and sustainment of the Maker's Pride Performance System across all production and non-production areas
  • Design, implement, and continuously improve tools, systems, and processes that enable scalable continuous improvement across the organization
  • Lead and oversee large-scale, cross-functional improvement initiatives to ensure successful execution and measurable results
  • Coach and develop CI leaders and teams to effectively plan, execute, and sustain improvement projects and kaizen events
  • Identify and develop high-potential talent; provide coaching, mentoring, and career development support to build future leadership capability
  • Champion Lean and Agile methodologies, driving adoption and cultural integration at all levels of the organization
  • Influence and drive cultural transformation by embedding continuous improvement principles into daily operations and leadership behaviors
  • Partner with Operations and CI teams to develop and deliver improvement pipelines and financial savings targets
  • Drive data-driven decision-making through improved utilization and standardization of SAP and other systems
  • Promote collaboration, structured problem-solving, and strategic thinking to deliver sustainable business outcomes
  • Manage multiple concurrent projects while ensuring alignment, prioritization, and resource optimization
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders across all levels, including executive leadership, to provide updates, insights, and recommendations

Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or a related field required
  • Experience:
    • 10+ years of progressive experience in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence.
    • Minimum of 4 years in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
    • Food manufacturing experience a plus
    • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale transformation initiatives and cross-functional projects
  • Certifications: Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen certification preferred
  • Skills:
    • Deep expertise in Lean, Agile, and continuous improvement methodologies; Six Sigma knowledge a plus
    • Strong project and program management capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
    • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
    • Advanced problem-solving skills with a structured, data-driven approach
    • Strong financial acumen, including understanding of P&L, cost drivers, and performance metrics
    • Experience leveraging SAP and other systems to drive standardization and decision-making (preferred)
    • High level of attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to manage confidential information
    • Ability to work autonomously while building strong cross-functional relationships
    • Demonstrated ability to drive change, influence culture, and sustain results in a fast-paced environment
  • Travel: Travel 50%-75% to support plant initiatives and ensure consistent execution

Job Summary
The Director, Continuous Improvement is a strategic leader responsible for defining, advancing, and sustaining enterprise-wide continuous improvement initiatives across assigned platforms. This role partners closely with Plant and Functional Leadership to embed a high-performance culture grounded in Lean, Agile, and data-driven decision-making.
This leader drives the execution and long-term sustainment of the Maker's Pride Performance System, ensuring consistent application across manufacturing and support functions. By leading large-scale transformation initiatives and developing internal capabilities, the Director enhances safety performance, improves first-pass quality, reduces waste and customer complaints, and increases overall operational efficiency and throughput.
The role is instrumental in building organizational capability, strengthening leadership pipelines, and accelerating results through disciplined execution, effective coaching, and standardization of best practices.
Key Responsibilities
  • Partner with senior leadership to develop and execute strategic initiatives aligned to operational excellence and business objectives
  • Lead the deployment, standardization, and sustainment of the Maker's Pride Performance System across all production and non-production areas
  • Design, implement, and continuously improve tools, systems, and processes that enable scalable continuous improvement across the organization
  • Lead and oversee large-scale, cross-functional improvement initiatives to ensure successful execution and measurable results
  • Coach and develop CI leaders and teams to effectively plan, execute, and sustain improvement projects and kaizen events
  • Identify and develop high-potential talent; provide coaching, mentoring, and career development support to build future leadership capability
  • Champion Lean and Agile methodologies, driving adoption and cultural integration at all levels of the organization
  • Influence and drive cultural transformation by embedding continuous improvement principles into daily operations and leadership behaviors
  • Partner with Operations and CI teams to develop and deliver improvement pipelines and financial savings targets
  • Drive data-driven decision-making through improved utilization and standardization of SAP and other systems
  • Promote collaboration, structured problem-solving, and strategic thinking to deliver sustainable business outcomes
  • Manage multiple concurrent projects while ensuring alignment, prioritization, and resource optimization
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders across all levels, including executive leadership, to provide updates, insights, and recommendations

Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or a related field required
  • Experience:
    • 10+ years of progressive experience in Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence.
    • Minimum of 4 years in a manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
    • Food manufacturing experience a plus
    • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale transformation initiatives and cross-functional projects
  • Certifications: Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen certification preferred
  • Skills:
    • Deep expertise in Lean, Agile, and continuous improvement methodologies; Six Sigma knowledge a plus
    • Strong project and program management capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
    • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
    • Advanced problem-solving skills with a structured, data-driven approach
    • Strong financial acumen, including understanding of P&L, cost drivers, and performance metrics
    • Experience leveraging SAP and other systems to drive standardization and decision-making (preferred)
    • High level of attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to manage confidential information
    • Ability to work autonomously while building strong cross-functional relationships
    • Demonstrated ability to drive change, influence culture, and sustain results in a fast-paced environment
  • Travel: Travel 50%-75% to support plant initiatives and ensure consistent execution

The pay range for this full-time, salaried position is $160,266-240,400/year. Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training. The position is eligible for a discretionary annual incentive based on company and individual performance. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment.
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The information provided in this document provides an overview of the most common duties, qualifications, and demands of the position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive summary of the role, and the duties, qualifications, and demands of the position are subject to change without notice. The expectations provided here may also be modified if an employee with a disability could effectively meet the expectations for the role with reasonable accommodation.
Maker's Pride is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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