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Senior Manager Operational Excellence Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Manager, Operations Excellence is responsible for managing and directing the process/performance improvement program to improve work processes, standards and productivity. Applying ...

Manager, Operational Excellence Company: Prologis A day in the life Are you passionate about ... Support senior leadership in executing operational strategies that improve key performance metrics ...

Manager, Operational Excellence Company: Prologis A day in the life Are you passionate about ... Support senior leadership in executing operational strategies that improve key performance metrics ...

Ziegler CAT has an opening for an Operational Excellence Manager to provide the leadership needed to develop a premier safety culture and associated program along with all facets of the Service ...

Manager, Operational Excellence Company: Prologis A day in the life Are you passionate about ... Support senior leadership in executing operational strategies that improve key performance metrics ...

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Senior Manager Operational Excellence information

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$36.5K

$103.2K

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How much do senior manager operational excellence jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior manager operational excellence in the United States is $103,151.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Senior Manager of Operational Excellence?

A Senior Manager of Operational Excellence is a leadership professional responsible for improving business processes, increasing efficiency, and driving organizational performance. They typically lead teams to implement best practices, optimize workflows, and foster a culture of continuous improvement across the company. This role involves analyzing operations, identifying areas for improvement, and deploying strategies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies. Senior Managers of Operational Excellence work closely with different departments to ensure that operational goals align with overall business objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Manager of Operational Excellence, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Manager of Operational Excellence, you need expertise in process improvement methodologies (such as Lean, Six Sigma), project management, and strong analytical skills, usually backed by a relevant degree and certifications like Six Sigma Black Belt or PMP. Familiarity with process mapping tools, data analytics platforms, and performance management systems is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and change management abilities help drive cross-functional collaboration and sustain improvement initiatives. These skills are critical for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable solutions, and achieving organizational performance goals.

How does a Senior Manager Operational Excellence typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvements?

A Senior Manager Operational Excellence frequently works with cross-functional teams—including operations, finance, IT, and quality assurance—to identify inefficiencies and implement best practices. Collaboration often involves leading workshops, facilitating root cause analysis sessions, and aligning stakeholders on process improvement initiatives. The role requires strong communication and change management skills to ensure that improvements are adopted and sustained across departments. Regular meetings, project tracking, and feedback sessions are common strategies used to foster alignment and drive results.

What is the difference between Senior Manager Operational Excellence vs Continuous Improvement Manager?

AspectSenior Manager Operational ExcellenceContinuous Improvement Manager
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Business, Engineering, or related; certifications like Lean, Six SigmaBachelor's/Master's in Business, Engineering, or related; certifications like Lean, Six Sigma
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in multiple departments, overseeing large projectsOperational focus, process improvement teams, project implementation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, healthcare, finance, logisticsManufacturing, healthcare, service industries

The Senior Manager Operational Excellence typically holds a higher strategic role, leading large-scale initiatives across departments, while the Continuous Improvement Manager focuses on specific process improvements within teams. Both roles require similar certifications and are common in industries aiming to optimize efficiency and quality.

What cities are hiring for Senior Manager Operational Excellence jobs? Cities with the most Senior Manager Operational Excellence job openings:
What states have the most Senior Manager Operational Excellence jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Manager Operational Excellence jobs include:
Senior Manager Operational Excellence

Senior Manager Operational Excellence

Leonardo DRS

West Plains, MO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 113966 

The Leonardo DRS Land Systems business is a recognized leader in the design and integration of complex technologies into new and legacy systems and platforms for global military and commercial customers. We are a 5 year running Top Workplace in the Greater St. Louis area.  

Job Summary

Leonardo DRS Land Systems is seeking a full time Senior Manager of Operational Excellence for our West Plains, MO location.  APEX (Always Performing for Excellence) is the Leonardo DRS Operational Excellence program designed to drive our culture, our way of life to a new level as the team strives for excellence in pursuit of top performance.  The Senior Operational Excellence Manager supports the Business Unit on Operational Excellence initiatives and is viewed as a Subject Matter Expert and business partner.

Job Responsibilities
  • Guide, maintain and monitor the operational excellence program and activities, ensuring integration and coordination with the Operational Excellence leadership
  • Manage opportunities identified for improvement using Operational Excellence principles and methodologies
  • Oversee process improvement events, define and monitor performance metrics, foster culture, and mentor quality team
  • Provide subject matter expertise in structured problem solving & root cause analysis, leading complex investigations and teaching/coaching others in problem solving methodology
  • Conducts briefings with and provide technical guidance for senior leadership and top executive management
  • Establishes processes and ensure that these processes conform to the organization's and/or corporate policies and procedures, values, and federal, state, and local regulations
  • Lead cross-functional teams in defining and scoping charters for continuous improvement projects
  • Provide advice and assistance to other departments as required
  • Establish and utilize dashboards for KPI's, track performance of Operational Excellence Cost Savings and Project goals
  • Manage execution in support of 5S, Visual Controls, Risk Management, Change Management, and Strategy Deployment
  • Develop and maintain integrated project plans
  • Effectively communicate with team members, senior leaders and key stakeholders on the status, objectives, risks, and mitigation plans associated with projects, as well as ensure team members are aware of integrated project timelines
  • Manage the Quality and Lean Six Sigma strategy to facilitate continuous production of products consistent with established industry standards, government regulations and customer requirements
  • Ensure OE standards (e.g., DMAIC, Lean, Root Cause Analysis) are being used for problem solving (tools and methods) and daily continuous improvement.  Champion use of KPI / metric management for data-based decision making.  Identify and support individuals with interest in OE leading to development/certification of future Yellow/Green/Black Belts
  • Improve overall business operations focusing on material flow, line balancing, lineside material presentation, and on deployment, and other lean manufacturing principles and practices
  • Provide training in support of operational excellence objectives and the execution of chartered projects
  • Support and drive Corrective Action Request responses and share best practices
  • Manage budget, cost, schedule and rate of return for operational excellence activities
  • Communicate clearly (written and oral) with customers, people and partners
  • Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization
  • Attend appropriate customer or business meetings
  • Other responsibilities, as needed by the organization
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field with a minimum of 5 years experience focused in Lean Practice and Problem Solving or Operational Excellence 
  • 7+ years of relevant experience
  • Industry certification in Lean Principles and/or Six Sigma
  • Proficient technical expertise with demonstrated application
  • Excellent interpersonal, leadership, negotiation, communication and writing skills
  • Willing and able to travel up to 40% as needed

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. 
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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