Title:  Manager, CI

Assistant Manager, Continuous Improvement

Title: Assistant Manager, Continuous Improvement

Function & Business Unit: Supply Chain

Location: Malaysia

Reports to: KWS & CI Senior Manager

Global Level: GL2

Purpose of the role

The Assistant Manager, Continuous Improvement supports the Plant CI & KWS Senior Manager through the phase progression of KWS (Kellanova Work Systems) by building people capability to use a set of tools and methodology for achieving sustainable results performance. This role is an internal role that evaluates all continuous improvement activities and implement plans to optimize performance and processes. Assists with the implementation of KWS goals and strategies for improving the operations and processes within the organization

A Taste of What You’ll be doing

Accountabilities:

• Strong knowledge with Continuous improvement tools and employs Lean methodology to support the annual Strategy Development
• Ability to engage teams and upper management- be a face of the company at each department.
• Experienced with Leader Standard Work behaviour activities.
• Ability to handle a variety of tasks, to work with plant leaders and the facility manufacturing team to execute existing processes.
• Conducts regular assessments against the KWS phase progression criteria with the CIPO Team, identifies gaps, and puts actions in place to close the gaps.
• Train, coach, and mentor others on enhanced processes on continual basis on CI and KWS tools and methodologies. 
• Acquires knowledge of KWS, lean manufacturing and industry “best in class” manufacturing operations practices to serve as a subject matter specialist.
• Supports the Plant KWS team which consist of Center Of Excellence CIPO (members)
• Supports the appropriate Center Teams based on Plant needs and KWS Phase progression.
• Regular audits & analysis to: 
• Identify and recognize areas of KWS compliance.
• Identify, recognize and support implementation of KWS “best practices”
• Identify areas of opportunity & work with plant team to correct.
• Works with other plants to share and implement KWS “best practices”
• Support ongoing cross-functional teams savings opportunities analyses, tracking and updates.
• Supports Technician Training in support of Technician Progression
• In absence of Plant CI& KWS Senior Manager, responsible for Site Daily Meeting Cadence with Tier 1-4 meetings and provides monthly analysis on health and results sustainability.
• Supports the Plant Smart Factory implementation.
• To guard standards and regulations on EHS, QFS and other fundamentals by participating in and coaching during Leader Led Observations, Safety 7, Golden 6, and other EHS and QFS activities. Provide support and involvement in all internal and external audits.
  
  

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Number and impact of CI projects delivered (cost savings, OEE, yield).
• KWS progression scores / maturity levels.
• Number of CI trainings/Kaizens conducted.
• Employee engagement and participation in CI/KWS activities.

We’re Looking for Someone With

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with exposure to CI, Lean, or Six Sigma.
• Able to work effectively in a fast-paced high-pressure environment
• Understands and meets internal and external business needs with professionalism and a sense of urgency.
• Experience in project management and cross-functional collaboration.
• Able to balance conflicting priorities and still provide the organisation with clear direction and focus.
•  
• Candidate minimum qualifications:
• Effective communication (both written and verbally) and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated “change agent” skills; inclusive of influence management, project management, vision development, and people motivation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and leverage internal and external technical resources.
• Demonstrated ability to coach and consult multiple organisational levels from the plant floor to supply chain senior leadership.
• Experience with manufacturing, enterprise, and PLAS systems.
• Proven problem-solving skills inclusive of Root Cause Analysis, Kaizen, and Conflict Resolution.
• Proficiency with computers, and computer software including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).
•  
• Candidate preferred qualifications:
• Proficient in Time Study techniques (Stopwatch,MTM, etc.).
• Skilled in process observation, motion analysis, and layout optimization.
• Strong data analysis using Excel, Power BI, or similar tools.
• Excellent facilitation, coaching, and communication skills.
• Green Belt certification or equivalent (preferred).
• Ability to work on the shop floor and influence frontline teams.

What’s Next?

After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter – not a bot. This means it could take us a little while to get back with you so watch your inbox for updates. In the meantime, visit our How We Hire page to get insights into our hiring process and how to best prepare for a Kellanova interview.

If you join our team, you’ll be rewarded for the difference you make. Our comprehensive benefits offer you the support you need through your life events, big or small. Visit our benefits page & be sure to ask your recruiter for more specific information.

About Kellanova

At Kellanova, we are driven by our vision to be the world’s best-performing snacks-led powerhouse, unleashing the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our portfolio of iconic, world-class brands include Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others.

Our focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) enables us to build a culture of belonging where all employees have a place at the table and are inspired to share their passion, talents and ideas to work.

Mars, Incorporated has acquired Kellanova in a transaction that brings together iconic brands, storied legacies and outstanding capabilities with a view to shape the future of snacking. You can learn more here, and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process

About Kellanova AMEA

Home to 75% of the world's population and contributing to 50% of the global GDP, the AMEA region represents a vast and promising market for Kellanova. This region provides an extensive geographic presence and holds substantial growth potential, especially considering our diverse portfolio spanning multiple categories.

AMEA is strategically positioned for growth, positioning itself to become a prominent player in the snacking industry while maintaining a steady trajectory of cereal growth. As we expand our product offerings, reach new geographic horizons, and increase investments in emerging markets within AMEA, you have the opportunity to become an integral part of a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. We are deeply committed to investing in our people and enhancing our capabilities to deliver value to our stakeholders.

About the BU / Function

Kellanova India (Kellogg India Private Limited is a member of the Kellanova Group, a global food company) began our journey in India by setting up a manufacturing plant at Taloja (Maharashtra) in 1994. Since then, we have innovated, invested in, and built the breakfast cereal category. We grew our commitment towards ‘Make in India’ by launching our second manufacturing facility at Sri City (Andhra Pradesh) in 2015. We also established a Research and Development Centre to cater to the demand of the South Asian markets for Kellanova. It has been 3 decades since we embarked on this journey to nourish India, constantly building our brand and distribution, resulting in consistent penetration growth.

We are a company committed to nurturing better days for people and our planet, which is why we aim to nourish India’s potential with our fortified and nutritious foods and tap into our 100+ years of expertise in grains to make that a reality.  Moreover, our CSR and sustainability efforts such as ‘Bright Start’ which provides fortified cereals and milk to children in need.

We at Kellanova, believe in a world of endless possibilities.                                                                   

Where no ambition is too big, and no achievement too small.                                                        

Where challenges are embraced so we grow and thrive                                                                   

Where well-being is nurtured and diversity is celebrated                                                                  

Where you have the power to be your true self; create a legacy and do a world of good           

Where YOU can seek to be nurtured and WE promise to Nourish Your Grrreat !

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here.