Plant Manager - Food Manufacturing

About the role

The Plant Manager is directly responsible for leading and driving all operational activities at the facility to ensure consistent levels of production excellence are achieved and sustained while developing a fully engaged and talented workforce.

Responsibilities

• Provides clear direction and leadership to the plant staff through goal setting, performance and metric reviews, action planning and Continuous Improvement execution.
• Collaborates with all cross-functional groups within the organization, maintaining a clear focus on the tactical and strategic plans of the facility and ensuring alignment with Corporate goals and objectives.
• Champions and drives continuous improvements in key areas, such as: Safety, Quality, Productivity, Cost and Customer Service.
• Fosters a Safety First, Quality Always culture focused on operational excellence while developing direct reports.
• Develops a highly effective leadership team by applying high standards for selection, communicating and delegating key responsibilities, establishing clear vision and stretch goals, and actively utilizing all performance, development and career tools to their full potential.
• Improves upon the capabilities of all plant personnel and develops a highly motivated workforce.
• Leads facility to achieve Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and uses performance data to drive improvement and provide optimal production performance.
• Conducts KPI review meetings with the plant leadership team.
• Implements cost-effective control systems over capital assets, operating expenditures, and labor costs.
• Continuously improves site processes and technologies. Develops and executes upon a site capital plan, addressing both short-term and long-term opportunities.
• Controls and minimizes overtime labor costs, maintenance/repair costs, downtime and product re-work.
• Identifies and eliminates potential sources of food safety risk.
• Delivers site environmental, health, & safety performance.
• Works to exceed expectations for all internal & external audits, i.e. BRC.
• Acts as liaison between plant personnel and corporate functions building solid relationships between these teams.
• Communicates urgent issues both internal and external to VP of Operations and the site leadership team, as needed.
• Identifies issues quickly, develops action plans and coordinates team member activities, so that these issues are communicated upward, and dealt with quickly & effectively.
• Identifies root causes of issues and adept at developing and implementing corrective actions to prevent repeat problems.
• Follows all safety procedures and participates in safety training.
• Maintains safe and efficient use of equipment, tools, and person.
• Reports any injury or accident or unsafe conditions immediately to supervisory member.
• Supports and complies with GMP’s. Understands and follows emergency action plan.
• Safeguards food safety, quality and legality.
• Ensures the operation is providing food-safe, quality products which meet or exceed all product specifications and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Operations or related STEM field preferred
• 10+ years of production experience, preferably within a food and/or beverage manufacturing environment
• 5+ years of Operational leadership with a demonstrated ability to successfully build and mentor high performance teams
• Lever Six Sigma, PMP, TPM or other relevant certifications
• Operational Excellence mindset with success meeting production KPIs
• Solid understanding and enforcement of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Understanding of major functions within the plant and the ability to work directly with all levels and functions
• Knowledge of GFSI audit schemes, such as BRC and SQF
• Highly organized with ability to multi-task, recognize priority and complete tasks in a timely manner
• Positive attitude and a team player that promotes collaboration
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proficient in MS Office Programs
• Willingness and ability to work any shift, if needed
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive and thoughtfully designed benefits package that supports the well-being, financial security, and work-life balance of our employees. 10 Paid Company HolidaysGenerous Paid Vacation & Sick TimeComprehensive, Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for you and your familyHealth Savings Account (HSA) with company contributionsFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)401(k) Retirement Plan with company match and discretionary profit sharingEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) and financial wellness resourcesCompany‑Paid DisabilityCompany‑Paid Life Insurance equal to 3× annual compensationAnd more benefits designed to support your health, wealth, and well‑being Together, these benefits reflect our commitment to caring for our employees both inside and outside the workplace.