Lean Transformation Manager

At Polaris Inc., we have fun doing what we love by driving change and innovation. We empower employees to take on challenging assignments and roles with an elevated level of responsibility in our agile working environment. Our people make us who we are, and we create incredible products and experiences that empower us to THINK OUTSIDE.

This role is responsible for leading Lean transformation activities at our Huntsville, Alabama manufacturing site. Reporting centrally to the Lean Transformation Director, this role will partner with Huntsville plant leadership on Lean priorities, including model lines deployments, Polaris Production System implementation, and embedding Lean culture throughout the site.

This role requires a deep understanding of Lean principles and methodologies, as well as the ability to implement strategic changes that enhance efficiency and reduce waste. Candidates should have prior experience leading Lean/Six Sigma/TPS transformation projects. This thought leader will act as a coach and mentor by working closely with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Successful candidates will develop deep expertise in this role that may, in time, be deployed at other sites within the Polaris manufacturing network and supply chain. The ideal candidate will initially reside in Huntsville, Alabama, with the flexibility and desire to relocate for future opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and Implement Lean Strategies: Lead the development and execution of lean transformation strategies aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.

• Continuous Improvement: Drive the continuous improvement culture by implementing lean tools and techniques such as 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Problem Solving, and Standard Work.

• Training and Development: Conduct training sessions and workshops to educate employees on lean principles and methodologies. Mentor and coach team members to build lean competencies.

• Process Optimization: Identify and eliminate waste in processes to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality.

• Performance Monitoring: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of lean initiatives and track progress towards objectives.

• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, supply chain, and engineering, to ensure the successful implementation of lean projects.

• Leadership: Inspire and lead teams through change management processes, ensuring buy-in and engagement at all levels of the organization.

• Assess and determine when the central Lean resources may need to support.

Skills and Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to teach, facilitate, and communicate effectively, including coaching and mentoring to successful completion of projects.

• Challenger Mindset: Organizational change agent with the ability to question assumptions and drive for improvement. 

• Lean Expertise: Extensive knowledge of lean principles and methodologies, including 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, and Material Flow.

• Project Management: Strong project management skills, with the ability to lead and execute multiple projects simultaneously.

• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to drive decision-making and process improvements.

• Leadership: Proven leadership abilities with experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing change initiatives.

• Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.

• Training and Mentoring: Experience in training, mentoring, and developing employees in lean methodologies and continuous improvement practices.

• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing business environments and respond to new challenges with innovative solutions.

• Certifications: Lean or Six Sigma certifications are preferred.

Educational and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (industrial, mechanical), Manufacturing, or a related field.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in lean manufacturing, operations, or continuous improvement roles, with at least 3 years in a leadership position.

• Experience in the automotive industry or a similar manufacturing environment is highly desirable.

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To qualify for this position, former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.

We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven workforce, which empowers us to THINK OUTSIDE.  Apply today!

At Polaris we put our employees first, by offering a holistic approach to their health and financial wellbeing.  Polaris is proud to offer competitive compensation, including a market-leading profit-sharing plan that is fundamental to our pay-for-performance culture. At Polaris, employees are owners of the company through company contributions to our Employee Stock Ownership Plan and discounted employee stock purchases plan. Employees receive a generous matching contribution to 401(k), financial wellness education and consultation to plan for their financial future. In addition to competitive pay, Polaris provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, paid time off, gym & personal training reimbursement, life insurance and disability offerings.  Through the Polaris Foundation and our Polaris Gives paid volunteer time off, we support employees who actively volunteer their time, efforts, and passions to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they live, play and work. Employees at Polaris drive our success and are rewarded for their commitment.

About Polaris

As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris' high-quality product line-up includes the Polaris RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman® all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle® mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe. www.polaris.com

EEO Statement

Polaris Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Applicants with a disability that are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, or otherwise need assistance or an accommodation in the recruiting process, should contact Human Resources at 800-765-2747 or Talent.Acquisition@Polaris.com.  To read more about employment discrimination protection under U.S. federal law, see: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov).