Plant Continuous Improvement Manager

Role Description:

The purpose of the Plant Continuous Improvement Manager role is to lead the deployment of the Ardagh Metal production system (AMPS) at the site level, driving measurable improvements in operational performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This role is responsible for identifying and supporting performance improvement opportunities—such as ODM reduction, spoilage control, cost optimization, and productivity gains—through the practical application of AMPS tools and methodologies. The plant CI Manager works closely with plant leadership and regional CI teams to embed best practices and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Key responsibilities include supporting Kaizen events, facilitating structured improvement activities, and enabling cross-functional collaboration to drive sustainable, data-driven results. Acting as a change agent within the plant, the role plays a central part in translating continuous improvement efforts into sustainable operational excellence and financial performance at the site.

Key Responsibilities:

1. AMPS Strategy & Implementation

• Lead the rollout and ongoing management of the Ardagh Metal Production System (AMPS) at the plant level, ensuring alignment with regional CI strategies, global standards, and plant priorities.
• Deliver AMPS implementation through the use of global models, standard templates, and site-specific use cases to achieve targeted performance improvements.
• Conduct AMPS assessments, audits, and maturity evaluations to track progress and ensure compliance with established standards.
• Develop and maintain the plant’s CI roadmap in collaboration with the Regional CI Director.
• Coordinate AMPS initiatives, prepare assessment reports, and support plant leadership in implementing actions for performance improvement.

2. Operational Excellence

• Identify, lead, and support plant level CI projects to improve OEE, reduce downtime, increase throughput, minimize waste, and optimize productivity.
• Apply structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., A3, DMAIC, 5 Whys, Fishbone) to identify root causes and deliver measurable improvements.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and cross-functional projects focused on achieving operational gains.
• Monitor and track CI project outcomes to ensure sustainability and alignment with plant and business goals.
• Link CI efforts to cost reduction initiatives, tracking cycle times, savings, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

3. Capability Building & Coaching

• Deliver AMPS and CI training across all levels of the plant workforce—from frontline operators to plant leadership.
• Coach managers, supervisors, and teams on Lean tools, daily management systems, and performance tracking methods.
• Identify AMPS-related training needs and provide Lean and Six Sigma training as appropriate.
• Develop and mentor internal CI champions to build site-level ownership and long-term capability in continuous improvement.

4. Culture & Change Leadership

• Act as a change agent within the plant, promoting the adoption of Lean thinking and a structured culture of continuous improvement.
• Provide management and oversight for all plant CI activities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and a sustained CI mindset.
• Facilitate cultural transformation through consistent messaging, role modeling, and reinforcement of AMPS principles in day-to-day operations.

5. Collaboration & Influence

• Partner with the Regional CI Director and Plant Manager to align plant CI initiatives with broader regional strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional plant leadership teams to support strategic priorities, operational excellence, and cultural change.
• Facilitate sharing of best practices across sites, contributing to regional and global learning.

6. Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Provide regular reporting on CI project progress, KPIs, cost savings, and AMPS maturity to plant and regional stakeholders.
• Promote standardization and harmonization of CI tools and practices in alignment with corporate guidelines.
• Support site readiness for AMPS assessments and ongoing CI evaluations.
• Participate in benchmarking activities to evaluate plant performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Contribute to the Ardagh Best Practices initiative by identifying, implementing, and sharing high-impact practices.

Requirements:

• University Degree in Engineer, Advanced Mathematics or Statistics
• Certified in Six Sigma Black Belt
• Project Management skills applying both Lean and Six Sigma
• Proficient in MS Office tools
• Strong understanding of Production Systems
• Process and data driven mindset with strong ability to understand the plant´s technologies & processes
• Proficient in data analysis and CI tools
• Strong knowledge and demonstrated application of  Lean/Six Sigma methodologies
• Comfortable engaging with all levels of Management including Regional leadership teams
• Ability to interact and network with all internal- and external stakeholders, exceptional relationship-building skills
• Clear and concise communicator able to build a compelling vision or direction
• Willingness to learn and teach new methodologies and tools
• Strong presentation, motivation and good listening skills
• Leader and team builder, effectively dealing with cross cultural business environment
• Good problem-solving, team-working and conflict management skills
• Able to deal with ambiguity and able to resolve problems in that environment
• Analtical thinking
• Flexible and resilient
• Change management
• Fluent in spoken and written English

Ardagh Metal Packaging is a leading global supplier of sustainable, infinitely recyclable metal beverage cans to brand owners. A subsidiary of sustainable packaging business Ardagh Group and a leading industry metal packaging company, Ardagh Metal Packaging employs more than 6,300 people across Europe, North America and Brazil, with sales of approximately $4.7 billion.

Ardagh Metal Packaging believes that the success of our business depends on the success of our people. We strive to create working environments where our employees feel valued and can work to their full potential. We offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team - you’ll enjoy the journey!

Ardagh Metal Packaging - North America has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, creed, religion (including religious dress and grooming), color, national origin, ancestry (including association, affiliation, or participation with persons or activities related to national origin, English-proficiency or accent, or immigration status), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital or domestic partner status, age, veteran or military status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Discrimination against any employee or applicant based on any of these factors is prohibited.

The anticipated base annual salary range for this role is between $93,900.00and $140,900.00 per year.  This role is bonus eligible. The bonus incentive program is based on company meeting or exceeding targets. Please note that the salary range provided is a good faith estimate and is only applicable for roles that are based out of Illinois. The final salary will be determined after considering relevant factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and work location, where appropriate.

Ardagh Metal Packaging also offer a comprehensive benefits program including medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage with an opportunity to earn a medical/prescription premium reduction by completing a qualified wellness activity. The Company also offers a 401(k) Plan. Ardagh Metal Packaging benefits may be amended at any time.