Supervisor, Production I

ALKEGEN • South Hill, VA

19h

About The Position

Alkegen brings together two of the world’s leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation and sealing materials. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we’re delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before. With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry’s most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways. Alkegen offers a range of dynamic career opportunities with globe-spanning reach. From production operators to engineers, technicians to specialists, sales to leadership, we’re always looking for top talent ready to bring their best. Come grow with us! Main Purpose of Role The Value Stream Leader (VSL) is accountable for the full operational and financial performance of the Fusion value stream from raw materials through to finished goods. This role ensures exceptional results across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, Inventory, Productivity, and People Development (SQDCIP). The VSL integrates daily manufacturing operations with long-term strategic improvement, driving Lean transformation, optimizing end-to-end material flow, eliminating waste, and ensuring customer satisfaction. This role requires strong leadership presence on the production floor, structured problem solving, and the ability to influence functions including engineering, maintenance, supply chain, and quality.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED accepted
• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 5 years in a supervisory/leadership role.
• Demonstrated success managing a production area or value stream with measurable performance improvements.
• Experience implementing Lean tools and leading Kaizen events.
• Proven record of improving OEE, reducing scrap, increasing throughput, or delivering cost savings.
• Experience working with MRP/ERP systems in a US manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of Lean principles (VSM, takt, flow, pull, 5S, SMED).
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar).

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Operations Management, Business, or related technical field required.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt.
• OSHA 30-hour certification.

Responsibilities

• Safety & Environmental Leadership Champion a zero-injury culture; ensure compliance with OSHA and Alkegen EHS policies. Conduct safety observations, risk assessments, and ensure corrective actions are executed. Implement and sustain world class housekeeping standards Implement visual controls and audit readiness across the value stream. Implement safe work practices and ensure adherence to LOTO, PPE, and machine guarding requirements. Ensure all employees are adequately trained to safely perform their roles and responsibilities.
• Operational Performance Management Own all KPIs for the value stream: throughput, yield, scrap, labor efficiency, downtime, and on-time delivery. Lead daily Gemba walks and Tier 1–3 meetings to address performance gaps. Ensure production schedules are met through effective materials coordination, staffing, and resource deployment. Drive adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process control plans. Collaborate with planning and customer service to manage capacity, constraints, and customer requirements. Manage value stream budget for labor, overtime and production supplies.
• Continuous Improvement & Lean Transformation Lead Kaizen events and structured improvement activities to increase product flow, reduce WIP, and shorten lead times. Identify bottlenecks and prioritizing improvement projects. Develop and implement standard work, visual management boards, and takt-time alignment. Reduce cost per unit, improve asset utilization, and support automation initiatives and capital projects. Lead cost reduction initiatives, including waste elimination, process optimization, and inventory reduction.
• People Leadership & Development Provide direct leadership to team leads, and operators within the value stream. Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and development planning. Promote cross-training and skills-matrix deployment to increase flexibility and cover critical roles. Establish a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and engagement. Lead conflict resolution, absenteeism management, and performance discipline when required.
• Quality Management Work closely with Quality to ensure compliance with ISO9001, customer specifications, and internal standards. Reduce defects, escapes, and rework through root cause analysis and corrective actions. Support the implementation of mistake-proofing (poka-yoke) and robust process controls. Ensure containment and communication protocols are followed for nonconforming materials.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with engineering on process improvements, correctness of machine settings, and new product/technology introduction. Partner with maintenance to coordinate PM, resolve recurring downtime, and prioritize critical assets. Engage with supply chain on materials availability, inventory levels, and supplier issues. Communicate production risks and needs to senior leadership clearly and proactively.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED