What is the role of a “Champion” in Six Sigma initiatives?

The role of a "Champion" in Six Sigma initiatives is crucial for the success of the overall program. Champions are typically higher-level executives or managers who are responsible for promoting Six Sigma philosophy and ensuring that the necessary resources and support are provided to the project teams, including Black Belts. They facilitate communication between project teams and upper management, helping to align Six Sigma projects with the strategic goals of the organization. This support can include removing obstacles that may hinder project progress and advocating for the necessary changes to be implemented based on the results of Six Sigma projects.

While leading project teams, measuring outcomes, and analyzing data are important tasks within Six Sigma, those functions are traditionally performed by Black Belts and Green Belts rather than Champions. Champions focus on oversight and support, making their role pivotal in ensuring that the project teams have everything they need to succeed. By providing this level of leadership and backing, Champions help create a culture where continuous improvement through Six Sigma can thrive within the organization.