Factory Operational Excellence Coach

We are looking for professionals to join our Byhalia, MS team as a Factory Operational Excellence Coach.

The position is scheduled from Monday- Friday 7:30AM-5:00PM

This is the role: 

This position reports directly to the Director of Operations, MAR. The purpose of the Factory Lean (ROPEX) Coach, having the competences and profile as described below, is to secure the anchoring, development and maintenance of ROPEX and the ROPEX Leadership style at all relevant levels in the Factory organization. The Factory ROPEX Coach is a full time key position in the Factory and should take the lead and secure proper implementation of ROPEX in the Factory in alignment with the overall ROPEX Plan and in close co-operation with the OPCO/GPR  ROPEX coach and factory management team. 

Ready to help build a better future for generations to come?

Your Role

As Operational Excellence Manager, you will report directly to the Director of Operations and serve as a key member of the Factory Management Team. In this role, you will lead the design, implementation, and continuous evolution of our operational management system—defining how we work.

What You Will Do

Design & Implement Systems

• Develop, implement, and continuously enhance a robust operational management system that defines the factory’s way of working
• Establish clear standards, processes, and governance to drive consistency and performance

Drive Strategic Alignment

• Collaborate with department managers to understand operational challenges and opportunities
• Translate insights into structured work plans, systems, and continuous improvement initiatives

Lead Change & Adoption

• Champion change initiatives by securing buy-in across all levels of the organization
• Ensure new ways of working are effectively communicated, adopted, and sustained

Advance Continuous Improvement

• Drive improvements in ROPEX maturity and overall operational performance
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and measurable results

Collaborate Globally

• Engage with both the ROCKWOOL North American and the global ROPEX community
• Share best practices and integrate innovative ideas into the local operational framework
• Plan the Kaizen Blitz events with the Factory MT, according to the strategy 
• Good people skills (good listener, emphatic, good Coaching skills, used to offer and receive Feedback, patience, open) 
• +5 Years Proven knowledge in LEAN leadership and LEAN principles 

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• Degree in Industrial Engineering (or equivalent) with hands-on manufacturing experience
• Minimum of 3 years driving successful Lean implementations with measurable results and cultural impact

Lean & Problem Solving Expertise

• Deep understanding of Lean principles, tools, and methodologies
• Strong capability in structured and systematic problem solving

Change Leadership

• Proven ability to lead and sustain transformational change in a manufacturing environment

Communication & Facilitation

• Excellent training, coaching, and facilitation skills
• Strong communicator, able to engage effectively at all organizational levels

Leadership Mindset

• Pragmatic, results-driven, and resilient approach
• Strong ownership mindset with the ability to influence without authority
• Prior leadership experience is a plus, but not essential

What we offer:

• Competitive Pay & Benefits from Day 1:  Comprehensive medical, dental, massage therapy, and vision plans.
• Retirement Pension Matching Program
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, paid holidays, and top up plans for maternity and paternity leave.
• Educational Assistance & Career Growth: Invest in your future.
• Wellness Perks: Fitness reimbursement and EAP access.
• Safety First: Company-provided PPE and programs to keep you protected

Who we are:

Founded in 1937 in Denmark, ROCKWOOL transforms volcanic rock into sustainable, innovative products that improve lives and communities.  With over 12,000 employees across 51 manufacturing facilities in 40+ countries, we share one common mission:  to release the natural power of stone to enrich modern living.  Sustainability is central to our business strategy.  Through our partnership with One Ocean Foundation and in connection with our sponsorship of the Denmark SailGP team, we help raise awareness around ocean health challenges in an effort to accelerate solutions to protect it.   

Work Environment & Conditions:

Our offices are designed to inspire collaboration, creativity, and meaningful social interactions., empowering employees to achieve balance and bring their best selves to work.  ROCKWOOL is deeply committed to giving back to our communities. Through global philanthropic initiatives, community involvement, and sustainability efforts, we strive to create a positive impact in the communities we serve. 

Our Culture and Commitment:

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard.  With employees representing 79 nationalities, we champion diversity, provide equal opportunities, and actively combat all forms of discrimination.  At ROCKWOOL, you'll find a welcoming team environment built on what we proudly call “The ROCKWOOL Way”.  This cultural foundation reflects our core values:  ambition, responsibility, integrity and efficiency.

ROCKWOOL is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We assess all qualified candidates based solely on their skills and qualifications, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.