Continuous Improvement Manager - Product Development

The Continuous Improvement Manager - Product Development is responsible for driving continuous improvement across all Business Units and Product Lines by monitoring, analyzing, and reducing post-release Bill of Materials (BOM) changes. This role will establish robust monitoring systems, perform root cause analysis on BOM change drivers, and lead cross-functional improvement initiatives to reduce downstream disruptions, improve product data quality, and enhance the overall New Product Development & Introduction (NPDI) process. The ideal candidate is a self-driven leader with a passion for continuous improvement and the analytical rigor to turn data into actionable insights.

- Develop and maintain a comprehensive monitoring framework to track post-release BOM changes across all Business Units and Product Lines globally
- Perform detailed root cause analysis on BOM changes to identify systemic issues, recurring failure modes, and process gaps within the product development lifecycle
- Define, prioritize, and lead improvement initiatives aimed at reducing the frequency and impact of post-release BOM changes
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics dashboards to measure BOM change trends, root cause categories, and improvement initiative effectiveness
- Partner cross-functionally with Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Product Management to drive sustainable corrective actions
- Develop and implement standardized processes and best practices for BOM accuracy and completeness at the point of product release
- Present findings, recommendations, and progress updates to senior leadership, including clear data-driven narratives on improvement opportunities
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement and proactive problem-solving across global teams
- Leverage data analytics tools and methodologies to identify patterns, predict potential BOM change risks, and recommend preventive actions
- Benchmark internal performance across sites and BUs to identify and share best practices
- Support the Director, Global Product Development Processes in broader process improvement and governance initiatives as needed

Minimum Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related discipline), Data Science, or equivalent technical field
- 7+ years of experience in continuous improvement, process engineering, product development, or related roles within a manufacturing environment
- 3+ years of experience leading cross-functional improvement projects or programs
- Demonstrated expertise in root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5-Why, Fishbone/Ishikawa, Fault Tree Analysis)
- Strong proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Excel, or similar)
- Working knowledge of PLM/ERP systems and BOM structures
- Proven ability to drive change and influence without direct authority across a matrixed, global organization
- Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations

Preferred Qualifications

- Master's degree in Engineering or MBA
- Background in design engineering with hands-on experience creating or managing BOMs
- Experience with data science techniques (statistical modeling, predictive analytics, or machine learning) applied to process improvement
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Green Belt certification
- Experience with Vertiv products or similar critical infrastructure/power/thermal management industries
- Familiarity with NPDI/stage-gate product development processes
- Experience working with global, multi-site teams across different cultures and time zones

- **Drive for Results** – Relentlessly pursues outcomes; sets aggressive goals and holds self and others accountable
- **Analytical Thinking** – Breaks down complex problems using data and logic; identifies root causes rather than symptoms
- **Influence & Collaboration** – Builds strong cross-functional relationships; persuades and aligns stakeholders without direct authority
- **Continuous Improvement Mindset** – Passionate about finding better ways to work; never satisfied with the status quo
- **Strategic Thinking** – Connects tactical improvements to broader organizational goals and product development excellence
- **Communication** – Clearly articulates complex technical concepts to diverse audiences at all levels

•  Customer Focus

•  Operational Excellence

•  High-Performance Culture

•  Innovation

•  Financial Strength

•  Own It

•  Act With Urgency

•  Foster a Customer-First Mindset

•  Think Big and Execute

•  Lead by Example

•  Drive Continuous Improvement

•  Learn and Seek Out Development

Vertiv is a $10.2 billion global critical infrastructure and data center technology company.  We ensure customers’ vital applications run continuously by bringing together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services.  Our portfolio includes power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, USA, Vertiv employs around 20,000 people and does business in more than 130 countries. Visit Vertiv.com to learn more.    

No calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to help.join@vertiv.com.

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