Continuous Improvement Manager

Hayward Holdings Inc. (NYSE "HAYW") is the largest manufacturer of residential swimming pool equipment in the world, with a significant presence in the commercial pool market that is continuously growing. Hayward designs, manufactures, and markets a full line of residential and commercial pool and spa equipment including pumps, filters, heating, cleaners, salt chlorinators, automation, lighting, safety, flow control and energy solutions at our company owned facilities. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hayward also has facilities in Tennessee, Arizona, and Rhode Island as well as Canada, Spain, France, Australia, and China.  This position is based in (Nashville). 

The Continuous Improvement / Kaizen Manager is responsible for driving a culture of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement across the organization. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution of Kaizen initiatives, Lean training, and standard work development. The position will lead cross-functional teams, train and mentor employees, and ensure alignment with the Hayward Global Production System (HGPS). 

• Develop and Sustain Lean Culture: Collaborate with management to embed Lean principles throughout operations. Act as a teacher of Lean, providing structured training and coaching to employees at all levels
• Kaizen Program Leadership: Plan, organize, and lead Kaizen events to eliminate waste and improve processes. Coordinate event logistics, training, and sustainment activities. Provide follow-up and accountability for implemented improvements.
• Standard Work Development: Author and maintain standard work documentation to ensure consistency and best practices. Partner with supervisors and engineering to validate and refine processes.
• Leadership Development: Lead a Lean rotational group to develop future leaders in continuous improvement. Mentor team members and foster a collaborative environment focused on problem-solving
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Support new product introductions by working with Engineering, Production, and other departments for smooth transitions. Drive safety improvements through Lean initiatives.
• Metrics and Reporting: Track and report progress on Lean initiatives and Kaizen events. Ensure alignment with corporate objectives and continuous improvement goals
• Responsible for all kaizen event 30-day follow-up’s and sustainment activities to ensure accountability

Education / Experience:

· Bachelor's Degree (B.S.) preferably in industrial or mechanical Engineering.

· Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

· Experience leading cross-functional teams and individuals to support company goals and objectives.

· Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office with the ability to develop and analyze spreadsheets.

· Strong business acumen with experience in developing course materials and corrective action

reporting.

· Lean manufacturing Certificate and/or Green Belt Certification (Black Belt preferred)

Language Skills:

English

Physical Demands:

Office Environment. Ability to walk in production areas as needed for extended periods of time. Will be

required to wear PPE when on production floor.

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