Plant Manager

A well-established and growing manufacturing organization is seeking a Plant Manager to lead operations at a key production facility. This confidential search is focused on a proven manufacturing leader with deep experience in CNC machining environments who can drive operational excellence, team performance, and continuous improvement.

The Plant Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, performance, and profitability of the facility. This role will oversee production, quality, maintenance, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives, with particular focus on optimizing CNC machining operations.

• Provide full-site leadership for safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance
• Drive operational excellence within a CNC machining environment (mills, lathes, multi-axis equipment)
• Optimize production flow, machine utilization, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Lead and develop production, engineering, maintenance, and support teams
• Champion Lean manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Establish and monitor KPIs; implement corrective actions to meet plant goals
• Partner with engineering on process improvements, tooling strategies, and cycle time reductions
• Ensure preventive and predictive maintenance programs support high machine uptime
• Manage labor planning, staffing, and capacity to meet customer demand
• Support capital equipment planning and justification for CNC investments
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and operational discipline

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field preferred
• 8+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience
• Strong hands-on experience in CNC machining operations
• Demonstrated success leading multi-shift manufacturing teams
• Deep understanding of machining processes, tooling, fixturing, and cycle time optimization
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP or similar preferred)
• Proven track record driving Lean/CI initiatives and measurable performance gains
• Strong financial and operational acumen

• A floor-focused leader who understands machining at a technical level
• A builder of high-performing teams and strong plant culture
• A data-driven operator who improves throughput and reduces waste
• A change agent comfortable in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• A leader who balances hands-on engagement with strategic thinking