Plant Continuous Improvement Leader

At Hill’s we have a purpose to transform the lives of millions of pet families through pioneering innovation, science-led nutrition, and the best and brightest people. If you’re interested in work that matters, fueled by passion for pets, we invite you to apply.

Founded more than 75 years ago with an unwavering commitment to pet nutrition, Hill’s mission is to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Our decades of science and research guide us in creating nutrition that’s a step ahead so pets and pet parents can enjoy every day together. As the US #1 Veterinarian recommended pet food brand, knowledge is our first ingredient with 220+ veterinarians, PhD nutritionists and food scientists working to develop breakthrough innovations in pet health.

Job Summary

As the Factory Performance and Reliability Leader, you will be responsible for driving the overall success of the FP&R strategies and performance. This position plays a critical role in developing, implementing, and driving continuous improvement strategies within the FP&R framework ensuring strong program governance and execution.

The role requires broad technical knowledge of the category operations, and the ability to understand standards implementation. In addition, strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills are necessary for collaborating across the operation of the site. The FP&R Site Lead is responsible for driving the success of the program at the site level, implementing global and divisional strategies, and advancing performance objectives in coordination with the DOM, site leadership team and regional FP&R manager. This role is key in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring program compliance, and championing the GSC Reimagined and Operational Excellence Strategy across the site while creating a culture of collaboration and engagement.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact for all FP&R activities within the site, providing expertise and guidance on standards, tools, and systems

• Collaborate directly with the DoM, site leadership team and regional FP&R manager to embed FP&R practices and drive site-wide engagement

• Lead FP&R audits at the site, including scheduling, resource coordination, execution, reporting, and follow-up actions; ensure closure of findings from global and site self-assessments.

• Oversee OPERA data integrity; closing gaps and educating site stakeholders regarding AE Model guidelines

• Monitor and report FP&R Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Activities Indicators (KAIs) specific to the site; identify and pursue opportunities for performance improvements

• Partner with site teams to develop and deliver training in FP&R methodology, root cause analysis, and best-in-class operational practices

• Support site adoption and optimization of digital, data analytics, and automation tools to elevate reliability and performance

• Facilitate site-level workshops, campaigns, and initiatives targeting efficiency gains, risk mitigation, and directional needs

• Oversee onboarding processes for new FP&R team members, working with site HR and leadership to ensure a smooth transition and immediate impact

• Share best practices and learnings with other site FP&R leads and global FP&R community; encourage cross-site collaboration

• Provide ongoing support and direction to DoM regarding FP&R program compliance, issue resolution, and strategic challenges

This is not an exhaustive list of duties or functions.

Required Qualifications

• BS degree in Engineering, Technology, Science or related field

• Minimum of 8 years of experience and knowledge of Factory Operations, Engineering or Supply Chain roles

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certified

• Proficient in FP&R Program and Standards

• Proficient in AE Model Guidelines

• Experience with MES (manufacturing execution system)

• Experience with DOMO card creation

Preferred Qualifications:

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certified

• Experience with Gemini & other Generative AI

• Experience within varied Supply Chain roles

Travel Requirements

Up to 10% travel – primarily for training, benchmarking, or support at other sites within the region

Key Competencies

Influence & Negotiation: Able to secure buy-in from cross-functional teams and lead change initiatives

Team & Relationship Building: Builds strong partnerships at all levels; fosters a collaborative team environment

Strategic Thinking: Links site FP&R activities to broader business objectives; balances operational detail with future vision

Results Orientation: Delivers measurable improvements and communicates progress effectively

Communication: Strong verbal and written skills; transparent and proactive in updates and escalations