KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Process Optimization Manager is responsible for leading enterprise-wide initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and build a culture of continuous improvement through proven methodologies (LEAN, Six Sigma). This role will develop and drive process improvement efforts leveraging robust tools, frameworks and operating approaches to embed continuous improvement principles across the organization and drive business value.

This role will lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and implement process improvements that eliminate waste, streamline workflows, and drive incremental business value. With a data-driven and results-oriented approach, the Process Optimization Manager will coach and mentor cross functional teams on how to best apply structured problem-solving techniques and sustain a culture of continuous improvement. Lean Six Sigma certification, experience executing continuous improvement initiatives across Retail and Supply Chain Operations, and familiarity in leveraging technological process enablers such as RPA, Process Mining, AI, and enhanced operating models is highly preferred.

Responsibilities include the following but are not limited to the following:

• Proactively identify process inefficiencies across the enterprise and leverage process improvement approaches (LEAN, Six Sigma) to design solutions.
• Architect process improvement efforts and specific improvement plans that maximize company value and business impact.
• Lead end-to-end process improvement projects to improve efficiency, quality, and other relevant business outcomes Analyze operational, financial and/or process data (trends, root causes, process mapping) to support specific continuous improvement efforts.
• Build a continuous improvement culture across the organization with standard methods, ongoing measurement, and management of process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure project sustainability and long-term adoption of improvements.
• Manage a portfolio of improvement projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, budgets, and timelines.
• Train, coach, and mentor staff in process improvement tools and methodologies, to build an internal capability and knowledge base.
• Manage and develop project teams, providing feedback and performance guidance.
• Act as a change agent that empowers the enterprise and operational teams to improve current state operations and drive new value from process improvement methodologies.
• Executive presence and can present findings, recommendations, and results to senior leadership in clear, actionable terms.

Professional Experience & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• LEAN Black Belt certification preferred.
• 7-10 years of professional experience and 5+ years in LEAN execution, with at least 2 years in a management or leadership role.
• Proven track record delivering measurable process improvements and efficiency gains.
• Proven track record executing change management effectively.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and presentation abilities.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive change in a matrixed environment.
• Proficiency with process mapping, statistical analysis tools, and project management software.
• Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple, complex initiatives simultaneously.

Why Guitar Center? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave-take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate: $155,000 - $170,000/yr depending on background and experience.

This position is eligible to participate in the Guitar Center Company bonus program based on Company performance.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.

About Guitar Center

Guitar Center embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to craft lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.

Why join us?

With a career at Guitar Center, you become part of the world's largest multichannel musical instrument retailer. Whether at our Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers, or Support Center, Guitar Center employees have a common goal: to help people find their sound and fill the world with more music.

Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Guitar Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job‐related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.