Let's take a look at the roles of Champions and Master Black Belts.

Champions

The simplest way to explain the responsibility of the Champion is that of removal of roadblocks, which the Black Belts cannot handle alone. They are generally members of middle management and are responsible for the initiation of projects.

They are responsible for mediating any issues between the Black Belts and top management. This allows the Black Belts to concentrate on their problem areas.

The Champions propose as well as assess potential projects. Being in the middle management level, they are generally familiar with business opportunities and the need for improvement. They select projects which are crucial for the success of the business.

Additionally, they also see to it that project selection is in alignment with company objectives. They have to ensure that top management is aware of the relevance of the project.

Champions help the Black Belts to concentrate on project problems and the development of new ideas, rather than Black Belts having to deal with top management in conflicting issues. At the same time, they do not interfere in the Black Belt's operations, but provide appropriate support in the areas for potential improvement.

In the deployment of the program, financial factors also exist. The Six Sigma Champion has to ensure that the project implementation happens primarily for improvement. It may take some time to show the financial results, and thus may be criticized by top management, whose aim is financial results.

Champions are ultimately accountable for the success of the project. Black Belts are not able to carry out the deployment and successful implementation alone.

Master Black Belts

A Master Black Belt is the team member who is able to show their capabilities beyond the Black Belt role in Six Sigma project management. They should have extraordinary abilities and a penchant for problem solving. They have to show extra ability in solving highly complex matters.

The Master Black Belts is generally a hard working and motivated individual. They are responsible for the training needs of Black Belts and other Six Sigma professionals. The ease with which they handle a situation proves their ability to take on more responsibilities. They are permanent change agents.

Master Black Belts apply the Six Sigma methodology to achieve tangible results. They are able to identify the opportunities for Six Sigma project deployment.

The Master Black Belt is a certified Black Belt. However, they have higher levels of skill with respect to advanced statistical analysis tools, communication skills, project management and coaching.

Six Sigma project success is not dependent on the training and ability of employees; rather, it very much depends on the abilities of the Champions and Master Black Belt with a passion for improvement of the business using Six Sigma tools.