The Operational Excellence (OpEx) Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing skills and knowledge-enhancement programs for manufacturing staff. This role collaborates closely with production teams, frontline employees, and leadership to drive continuous improvement, reduce operator-influenced defect rates, accelerate onboarding cycle times, and ensure the workforce meets and exceeds standard training metrics. The ideal candidate will develop structured training roadmaps, competency frameworks, and lean methodologies to support an adaptable, high-performance manufacturing environment. 

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a structured training framework focused on operational excellence, lean manufacturing principles, and continuous improvement. Conduct training needs analyses (TNA) to identify skill gaps, learning opportunities, and efficiency improvements. Design customized training programs using digital content and knowledge management tools (such as Microsoft PowerPoint (Advanced Level), Canva or Adobe Creative Suite, Notion or Trello) and deliver using a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on demonstrations, e-learning with tools such as (Zoom or similar, Miro or mural, SharePoint or similar) and on-the-job training (OJT). Implement standardized onboarding programs to improve new hire readiness and time-to-competency. Drive competency-based certification programs to validate skill acquisition and ensure workforce preparedness Collaborate with production and management teams to ensure training effectiveness translates into measurable performance improvements. Use lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline training processes and eliminate inefficiencies. Establish and track key training performance indicators (KPIs) such as defect rate reduction, training cycle time, and employee skill progression. Develop and maintain standardized work instructions, process documentation, and training manuals to support operational consistency. Confer with management and conduct surveys to identify training needs based on projected production processes, changes, and other factors. Serve as the training SME (Subject Matter Expert), coaching and mentoring production leaders and frontline employees on best practices. Partner with Quality, Engineering, and HR teams to align training with operational goals and compliance standards. Oversee and manage learning management systems (LMS) tools (such as SuccessFactors, Workday, or Cornerstone LMS, Docebo, Power BI or Tableau, Google Analytics for Training Portals or similar) and digital training tools (such as Articulate 360, Adobe Captivate, Camtasia, Kahoot! , SCORM/xAPI Compliance or similar)  to improve training accessibility and engagement.

Required Knowledge and Skills

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media. Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology. Demonstrated ability to select and use training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching others new things. Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage learners across all levels of the organization. Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Strong understanding of corporate learning strategies, digital transformation in training, and instructional design methodologies such as Agile Learning Development

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree 3 Years’ experience in a training and development role Formal education, talent development certificate or training

Work Conditions

Office Environment; Manufacturing floor support  Occasional travel as needed (<10%) Extended or irregular work hours