Plant Manager

Reference: PR/ Manager An industry leader in food manufacturing is looking to identify a Plant Manager to oversee operations at a large-scale production facility in Chicago. This individual will be responsible for driving operational performance, leading cross-functional teams, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:
Lead all day-to-day plant operations, including production, maintenance, warehouse, and quality functions while ensuring operational goals are achieved.

Team Management:
Develop and mentor supervisors and salaried leaders, fostering a culture centered on safety, accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.

Production Planning:
Ensure production schedules and resources are effectively aligned to meet customer demand while maximizing efficiency.

Quality Assurance:
Maintain compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards, driving corrective actions and process improvements as needed.

Safety and Compliance:
Promote a strong safety culture through training, audits, and adherence to established safety programs and procedures.

Budget and Cost Control:
Manage plant financial performance, including labor, materials, and operating expenses, while identifying opportunities for cost reduction.

Customer & Stakeholder Partnership:
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure service, quality, and operational objectives are consistently met.

Continuous Improvement:
Lead Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and other operational excellence initiatives to improve productivity and reduce waste.

Reporting & Analytics:
Monitor and communicate plant performance through KPIs, operational metrics, and strategic business reviews.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related discipline required.
6+ years of progressive plant management experience within food, beverage, bakery, snack, or contract manufacturing environments.

Strong understanding of food safety, quality systems, regulatory compliance, and manufacturing best practices.

Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams while driving a culture of accountability and engagement.

Track record of improving operational performance through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Experience managing budgets, plant KPIs, capital projects, and cost-saving initiatives.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with a data-driven approach.

Lean, Six Sigma, or related certifications preferred.