The Black Belt Role
Black Belts at Maple Leaf Foods are results-driven leaders who do not hesitate to roll up their sleeves to get the job done, regardless of the task. They thrive on change and are proactive at identifying and managing the resistance that often comes with it. They are dedicated and passionate about their work, but when their project is completed, readily give the credit to their project team. Satisfaction is drawn from challenge and learning.
"If I was looking at my own career development, if I could roll back the clock, I can tell you I would personally want to cycle through the Black Belt role because it matches the essence of what we define as great leadership in the Maple Leaf organization."
- Michael McCain, President & CEO, Maple Leaf Foods
The diversity of work and the pace of learning are truly unique in the Black Belt role; there is no typical day in the life of the Black Belt. Through affecting change, leading projects and coaching the business, every day brings a different set of challenges and opportunities to grow as a business leader.
Transforming Culture
Six Sigma encourages us to look at new and improved ways of approaching our work and at times, challenges currently accepted management beliefs and practices. All Six Sigma resources, including Black Belts, are on the front line of this change effort, driving change that is aligned and consistent with our Leadership Values. Examples of activities include:
- Engaging with the business to identify how to incorporate Six Sigma into everyday work
- Building business acceptance of using Six Sigma methodology to resolve problems
- Identifying change barriers and facilitating resolution
Leading projects
Black Belts lead mid-to-large-size projects and programs, facilitating teams through the project lifecycle. Examples of activities include:
- Applying the Six Sigma methodology to solve a problem with the appropriate level of analysis, implementing the solution and sustaining results
- Learning, applying and teaching the analytical, change and project management tools required to achieve project deliverables
- Organizing and facilitating teams through productive meetings and workshops
- Managing throughout the project life cycle through crisp execution of status updates, closeout reports and other key documents
Building Capability
There is a constant demand for Black Belts at Maple Leaf to continue to build our Six Sigma capabilities. To support this, Black Belts participate in activities which include:
- Coaching Maple Leaf employees on their Green Belt activities
- Leading Six Sigma orientation sessions with employees
- Contributing to our knowledge capital through internal training courses and publications
