Continuous Improvement Program Manager

Overview

Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

As the Microsoft Continuous Improvement Program Manager (CIPM), you are responsible for identifying, leading and supporting strategic initiatives to improve operational performance across the organization. This role plays a key part in embedding a culture of continuous improvement by applying lean, six sigma and other performance enhancement methodologies. The ideal candidate has strong analytical capabilities, leadership skills and proven track record of driving impactful change.

Responsibilities

Job Summary:
We are seeking a data-driven, results-oriented Lean Sigma professional to lead and support process improvement initiatives across the organization. This role focuses on identifying inefficiencies, analyzing root causes, and implementing sustainable solutions using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste, improve quality, and enhance performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and execute Lean Six Sigma projects to drive operational excellence.
• Analyze business processes and identify areas for cost savings, cycle time reduction, or quality improvement.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping, 5S audits, and process walkthroughs.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with teams in Operations, Quality, Engineering, Finance, IT, and HR to deliver measurable improvements.
• Collect and analyze data using statistical tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP, Excel).
• Develop and maintain process documentation, SOPs and control plans.
• Train and mentor Green Belts or Yellow Belts as needed.
• Track and report project progress and ROI to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Operations, or a related field.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (ASQ, IASSC, or equivalent).
• Min. 7 years of relevant experience in process improvement or operational excellence roles.
• Proficiency in Lean tools (e.g., 5S, A3 Report, Kaizen Process, Value Stream Mapping, Standardized Work, Error Proofing, Takt Time/Cycle Time Analysis).
• Experience with statistical analysis tools (Minitab, SigmaXL, or equivalent).
• Strong problem-solving, facilitation, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
  
  Key KPIs:
• Number of projects completed
• Cost savings / ROI from improvement initiatives
• Defect reduction / quality improvement %
• Lead time or process cycle time improvement
• Employee engagement in CI activities

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about