Plant Manager

About SMARDT

As a global pioneer in oil-free centrifugal chiller technology with an expanding portfolio of thermal management solutions, Smardt is dedicated to delivering high-efficiency and energy-saving systems for industries, real estate developments, health care and educational centers worldwide.

As a global pioneer in oil-free centrifugal chiller technology with an expanding portfolio of thermal management solutions, Smardt is dedicated to delivering high-efficiency and energy-saving systems for industries, real estate developments, health care and educational centers worldwide.

We operate manufacturing facilities in the US, Canada, Germany, China, and Australia, with a team of over 900 employees. With a focus on reliability, performance, and environmental stewardship, Smardt continues to redefine industry standards through advanced engineering and a commitment to a more sustainable future.

The Plant Manager will lead the startup and operational launch of Smardt’s new Phoenix manufacturing facility, ensuring the successful establishment of all production, quality, safety, and support systems. This role is responsible for building the entire plant organization from the ground up, implementing world-class manufacturing practices, and ensuring a smooth transition from project phase to steady-state operations. Once operational, the Plant Manager will oversee all aspects of production, maintenance, engineering, and continuous improvement to achieve cost, quality, and delivery goals.

• Lead the site startup and commissioning of the Phoenix manufacturing facility.
• Define the facility layout, equipment requirements, and production line setup aligned with product portfolio and future capacity.
• Oversee construction, utilities, and EHS compliance to ensure readiness for manufacturing operations.
• Develop and execute the recruitment plan for all plant functions (production, quality, engineering, logistics, maintenance, etc.).
• Establish all operational procedures, including production flow, safety standards, material movement, and shopfloor control.
• Collaborate with Corporate Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality to ensure alignment with Smardt global standards.
• Drive the installation and validation of machinery, tooling, and ERP systems (NAV/Business Central or equivalent).
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations for environmental, health, and safety.
• Create the initial budget, KPIs, and headcount plan for plant operations.
• Supporting role to PMO during project execution phase
• TICA technology/process transfer; localization strategy; launch/ramp governance; product compliance/quality readiness; capital/project budget responsibility; and S&OP/capacity alignment.

• Lead all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality, materials, and EHS.
• Become the site owner once operational phase starts.
• Ensure achievement of production targets, safety performance, delivery reliability, and cost efficiency.
• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement programs.
• Build and maintain a high-performance team culture focused on accountability and results.
• Partner with HR to ensure ongoing training, performance management, and leadership development.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Supply Chain, and Finance.
• Monitor KPIs (Conversion Cost, OTD, FPY, Safety, Productivity, Scrap, Inventory Turns).
• Act as the key liaison with corporate and executive teams for reporting, compliance, and strategic alignment.

• Partner closely with TICA and Smardt global Engineering, Manufacturing and Quality teams to enable effective product and manufacturing…