[Remote] Project Manager of Lean Excellence

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. International Paper is a leader in sustainable packaging solutions, and they are seeking a Project Manager of Lean Excellence to drive operational improvements across their Containerboard business. The role involves implementing lean manufacturing principles, leading continuous improvement initiatives, and coaching teams to enhance safety, quality, delivery, and cost efficiency.ResponsibilitiesImplement lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, Visual Management, SMED and Value Stream MappingDrive waste elimination, process flow optimization, and variation reductionFacilitate structured problem solving using A3, DMAIC, 5-Why, RCFA, and similar methodologiesDeliver measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and costUse data to identify gaps in performance versus best practices and work with the mill team to execute an improvement planDocument best practices and share improvements to leverage resultsUnderstand and apply financial drivers and key performance indicatorsAssist with implementing and managing systems that will sustain improvement effortsLead and coach CI events / kaizen through hands-on participationAssist with developing and effectively delivering training materials in multiple formats to ensure team members throughout the organization are trained in CI concepts and philosophyEvaluate and drive opportunities for appropriate CI and lean tool applicationsProvide support, assistance, and communication to the mill leadership teams regarding CI initiativesSkillsBachelor's degree preferred in business, engineering, operations management, or related fieldMinimum 5 years of manufacturing experience with proven change leadership skillsDemonstrated success utilizing and deploying lean toolsStrong analytical, facilitation, coaching and change leadership skillsAbility to influence without formal authority across multiple functionsProficiency with Microsoft OfficeBenefitsHealth, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and petsLeadership trainingPromotional opportunitiesCompany OverviewInternational Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. It was founded in 1898, and is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is https://www.internationalpaper.com/.Company H1B SponsorshipInternational Paper has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 7 in 2026, 10 in 2025, 11 in 2024, 22 in 2023, 20 in 2022, 19 in 2021, 34 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.