Job Purpose

The Continuous Improvement Specialist I is responsible for championing, developing, and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement across all areas of the site, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing and operations. This role plays a critical part in improving site performance by applying structured continuous improvement methodologies and driving measurable results across key performance indicators including safety, on-time-in-full delivery, cost, material efficiency, quality, and inventory management.

As an agent of change, the Continuous Improvement Specialist I supports the deployment of AkzoNobel Leading Performance Systems, while promoting Lean and Six Sigma thinking throughout the organization. This role partners closely with site leadership, operations teams, and the broader AkzoNobel continuous improvement community to build capability, embed best practices, and create a sustainable mindset of operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Building Organizational Capabilities

• Deploy and sustain the AkzoNobel Leading Performance Systems manufacturing program, providing active, hands-on coaching on the shop floor to drive continuous improvement initiatives and ensure long-term sustainability of improvements.

• Act as a visible role model for Lean and Six Sigma behaviors, problem-solving, and decision-making practices.

Site Performance and Results

• Support and challenge the workforce and site leadership team in setting direction, prioritizing initiatives, and allocating resources to achieve site improvement plan targets.

• Lead and support the planning, sequencing, and execution of improvement activities aligned with yearly performance goals.

• Review the AkzoNobel Lean Performance Systems operating framework—including goals, key performance indicators, operating processes, and people systems—to ensure alignment with corporate and business area requirements.

• Identify performance gaps and partner with site leadership to define and implement corrective actions.

AkzoNobel Leading Performance Systems Deployment

• Lead or support the local implementation of AkzoNobel Leading Performance Systems, ensuring full adoption and practical, day-to-day application.

• Build local continuous improvement capabilities and mindset across functions.

• Actively network within the AkzoNobel continuous improvement community to share insights, challenges, and best practices, while encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing across sites.

Level of Autonomy

This role operates under the direction of the Continuous Improvement Manager while working independently and proactively to support site performance related to quality, cost, delivery, health, safety, environmental performance, and people development. The role analyzes data, interprets trends, and makes recommendations to improve operational outcomes.

Job Qualifications and Experience

Required and Preferred Qualifications:

• One to three years of relevant experience in areas such as operations, production, maintenance, logistics, process engineering, or continuous improvement.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in a technical, business, or engineering-related field.

• Demonstrated experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Total Productive Maintenance.

• Experience coaching and influencing others at multiple organizational levels.

• Strong project management and stakeholder management capabilities.

• Experience implementing change programs in an operational environment is a plus.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent communication, presentation, and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility through integrity and situational leadership.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to structure issues, perform accurate analyses, and translate findings into actionable recommendations.

• Comfortable working in fast-paced, changing environments with a steep learning curve.

• Highly organized, able to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a clear view of the bigger picture.

• Confident and resilient, with the ability to handle resistance and lead change effectively.

• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to build a strong professional network.

• Proficient in Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and SharePoint, with the ability to prepare documentation related to continuous improvement programs.

• Fluent in English, both written and verbal.

Personal Attributes

• Self-directed, risk-aware, and capable of making sound decisions in uncertain situations.

• Passionate about continuous improvement and driving exceptional performance.

• Customer-focused, reliable, and committed to operational excellence.

• Active listener with a strong coaching mindset.

• Demonstrates leadership presence and the ability to inspire others to engage in change initiatives.

Compensation/Benefits/Rewards

The salary range for these skills is:  $76,000 to $84,000.  This is the range that we in good faith anticipate relying on when setting wages for this position.  We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This salary range may also be modified in the future.
• Medical insurance with HSA
• Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits
• Annual bonus
• 401K retirement savings with 6% company match
• Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay
• Paid Parental leave
• Hybrid work for most exempt roles
• Active Diversity & Inclusion Networks
• Career growth opportunities on a regional and global scale
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee referral bonus