Overview
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline

J.R. SUTTON

Self-Employed
Litchfield,IL
J.R. SUTTON
1
Certification
21
years of professional experience

Results-driven professional with extensive experience designing, implementing, and optimizing quality management systems to exceed organizational goals. Proven ability to enhance product and service quality through strategic planning, process optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives. Demonstrated success in reducing defects, minimizing waste, and improving operational efficiency.

Work History

Process Improvement Engineer

1 Month
Ardagh Group | 08.2026 - Current
  • Led cross-functional process improvement initiatives to reduce waste and stabilize production performance.
  • Analyzed manufacturing data to identify bottlenecks and prioritize corrective actions.
  • Standardized operating procedures to improve consistency across production lines.
  • Facilitated root-cause investigations for quality and efficiency deviations.
  • Implemented lean manufacturing tools to streamline workflow and eliminate nonvalue-added steps.
  • Monitored key performance indicators to sustain continuous improvement efforts.
  • Analyzed production data to identify trends, pinpoint inefficiencies, and develop targeted improvement initiatives.
  • Coached team members on problem-solving techniques, empowering them to take ownership of their own process improvements.
  • Championed a culture of continuous improvement and process excellence, inspiring team members to embrace change and strive for ongoing enhancement in their daily work.
  • Reduced waste and increased productivity through the application of Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Improved production efficiency by identifying and implementing process improvements in manufacturing operations.
  • Conducted value stream mapping exercises to visualize current state processes and identify areas for improvement.

Family Financial & Operations Manager

5 Years 1 Month
Self-Employed | 08.2021 - Current
  • Managed diversified portfolio of agricultural and fixed-income investments to optimize returns
  • Oversaw financial operations, including budgeting and cash flow management, to ensure fiscal health
  • Implemented tracking systems that enhanced decision-making processes
  • Lead residential renovation and maintenance projects

Sr. Process Improvement Specialist

1 Year
Odyssey Logistics | 08.2025 - 08.2026
  • Led cross-functional process improvement initiatives that enhanced operational efficiency
  • Collaborated with leadership to define KPIs and implement data-driven solutions that informed decision-making
  • Apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste and standardize processes
  • Partnered across sites to align best practices and ensure consistent process application
  • Led process mapping initiatives to streamline logistics workflows and reduce handling delays.
  • Analyzed operational data to identify bottlenecks and recommend corrective actions.
  • Developed standard work instructions to improve consistency across cross-functional teams.
  • Facilitated root cause analysis sessions to resolve recurring service and process issues.
  • Collaborated with operations, transportation, and warehouse teams to align improvement priorities.
  • Monitored KPI trends to support continuous improvement and performance tracking.
  • Implemented workflow enhancements that improved task accuracy and reduced rework.
  • Trained staff on updated procedures, system changes, and process compliance requirements.
  • Enhanced communication and collaboration between departments, ensuring a cohesive approach to process improvement efforts.

Quality Assurance Supervisor

4 Years 6 Months
NAPCO Pipe & Fittings | 02.2017 - 08.2021
  • Led plant quality program to achieve compliance and meet product standards
  • Trained operators on quality requirements and inspection methods to enhance accuracy
  • Conducted root cause analysis and implemented corrective actions to resolve issues
  • Led audit preparation and compliance efforts

Quality Assurance Technician

11 Years
NAPCO Pipe & Fittings | 01.2006 - 01.2017
  • Conducted inspections and testing to ensure adherence to quality standards
  • Analyzed nonconformance issues and facilitated corrective actions
  • Oversaw disposition processes for non-compliant products to maintain quality control
  • Maintained calibration systems and Implemented 5S methodology to improve workplace organization

Education

Bachelor of Science

Eastern Illinois University | Charleston

Skills

Process Mapping
Lean Six Sigma
Quality management systems
Operational excellence
Data Analysis
Minitab
Work standardization
5S system
Microsoft Office 365

Certification

BMGI Six Sigma Green Belt, AIGPE Kaizen Specialist, ASQ CMQ/OE (In Progress)

Timeline

Process Improvement Engineer

Ardagh Group
08.2026 - CurrentRead More

Sr. Process Improvement Specialist

Odyssey Logistics
08.2025 - 08.2026Read More

Family Financial & Operations Manager

Self-Employed
08.2021 - CurrentRead More

Quality Assurance Supervisor

NAPCO Pipe & Fittings
02.2017 - 08.2021Read More

Quality Assurance Technician

NAPCO Pipe & Fittings
01.2006 - 01.2017Read More

Eastern Illinois University

Bachelor of Science
Read More
J.R. SUTTON