Continuous Improvement Manager

Do you enjoy solving hard problems and streamlining processes? We are seeking an experienced and driven Continuous Improvement Manager to join our Operations team. This role will focus on identifying, developing, and implementing improvements in operational processes to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the customer experience within our organization. The ideal candidate has a strong background in process optimization, waste reduction, automation mindset and experience in the insurance industry. 

At Delta Dental of Washington our vision is that all people can enjoy good oral and overall health, with no one left behind. We succeed because of a shared commitment to a set of values that guide everything we do – for our customers, for our communities, and for each other. We are Accountable. We lean in with Courage. We stay Curious. We are Inclusive. We act with Integrity.  

We offer highly competitive medical, dental and vision plans as well offering an 8% 401k match and all employees start accruing vacation and sick time from their very first day. We empower employee development through our tuition reimbursement plan, professional development plans, and employee-led communities. 

The pay range for this position In Western Washington varies between $81,900.00 – $116,550.00, and for Eastern Washington varies between $71,411.00 - $101,623.00. Washington Dental Service and its affiliates, including Delta Dental of Washington and Arcora Foundation intends to offer the selected candidate a base pay within this range, dependent on job-related, non-discriminatory factors such as experience. Base pay will also be adjusted based on the candidate's geographic location. 

Essential Responsibilities include the following: The list of responsibilities listed is not intended to be comprehensive. Washington Dental Service and its affiliates, including Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington, and TriForza reserve the right to change the responsibilities at any time with or without notice. 

• Identify Process Improvement Opportunities: Analyze current processes, assess inefficiencies, and identify areas for improvement to enhance productivity and customer experience. 
• Develop and Implement Process Improvement Initiatives: Lead end-to-end process improvement projects; including defining scope, setting objectives, creating project plans, and driving solutions in collaboration with cross-functional teams. 
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Use data to analyze process performance and measure the impact of implemented improvements. Prepare detailed reports and dashboards to communicate findings, recommendations, and performance metrics to stakeholders. 
• Change Management: Develop and implement change management strategies to ensure successful adoption of new processes across teams. Engage stakeholders and provide necessary training, support, and documentation. 
• Standardization and Documentation: Establish and maintain process documentation, including process maps, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and workflows to ensure consistency and scalability. 
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with teams across departments, including Claims, Customer Service/Contact Center, Group Administration, PR, Sales, and IT to gather input and ensure alignment on process improvements. 
• Continuous Improvement Culture: Champion a culture of continuous improvement by promoting process efficiency, waste reduction, and innovation across the department. 
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all process changes adhere to regulatory and compliance standards, mitigate risk, and align with commonly followed industry standards. 

Experience, skills, and education do you need to have to succeed in the position: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.  

• 5 years of experience in process improvement, operations leadership, or a similar role within the insurance industry. 
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions. 
• Able to solve issues of moderate to complex problem solving where analysis of data, processes and opportunities require collaborative brainstorming on a variety of factors. 
• Strong facilitation skills and experience in Design Thinking methodologies. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office software. 
• Experience working with users, departments and organizations in assessing and helping identify areas for improvement.  
• Ability to work on multiple small and large projects at the same time. The ability to multi-task in a team environment and effectively prioritize is critical. 
• Ability to understand both the technical and business side of issues and help in communicating both perspectives. 
• Strong interpersonal skills including strong verbal, written communication skills and excellent listening skills. Ability to communicate effectively with individuals on all organizational levels. 
• Ability to work with many productivity tools (MS Visio, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, etc…). 
• Knowledge of Dental on Demand and DDWA processes is highly desired. 

Washington Dental Service and its affiliates, including Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington, and TriForza is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Salary : $71,411 - $101,623