Manufacturing Manager

JOB PURPOSE

As the Manufacturing Operations Manager at Unilever’s Independence, MO factory, you’ll play a pivotal role in leading a high-performing team within a fast-paced, unionized foods manufacturing environment. This role is for a results-driven leader who combines technical expertise with exceptional people leadership to deliver world-class performance in a 24/7 manufacturing environment. You’ll be responsible for driving operational excellence, championing safety and quality, and delivering results that directly impact our consumers and communities.

• Champion a zero-injury culture and ensure strict adherence to Unilever’s safety standards and regulatory requirements (OSHA, environmental compliance).
• Participate in the implementation of site-specific safety and environmental programs and elevate the safety culture to world-class standards.
• Lead factory improvement programs by leveraging and identifying new safety techniques, quality initiatives, cost‑saving opportunities, and development strategies to enhance overall factory performance—including production costs, labor, OEE, waste, and attainment.
• Maintain a strategic perspective, balancing the broader needs of the business with those of the factory.
• Drive perfect quality throughout all Make and Pack processes.
• Inspire, coach, and develop shift supervisors and senior supervisors to build a high-performance culture.
• Manage employee relations in alignment with HR policies and procedures to ensure high engagement levels.
• Build and develop AGILE work systems that engage, empower, and motivate over 280 full‑time union employees toward a highly autonomous work culture.
• Manage a complex product portfolio to optimize run strategy and influence future‑fit portfolio transformation in collaboration with the planning team.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, a technical field, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of supply chain experience in a foods, CPG, or manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing multi‑shift operations and large teams in a unionized environment with at least 2‑3 years in a manager capacity.
• Proven ability to provide clear focus and direction, empower teams, and hold them accountable for results.
• Creative problem‑solving skills with a diplomatic approach to conflict resolution.
• Strong leadership capabilities with a track record of inspiring teams and driving continuous improvement.
• Ability to manage conflict effectively while fostering an inclusive work environment.
• Self‑motivated with a strong focus on problem‑solving.
• Proven ability to champion change management initiatives.
• Familiarity with HACCP principles, including implementation and facilitation.

• Leadership experience in continuous improvement methodologies (WCM, TPM, Lean Manufacturing).
• Experience in a 24/7 foods manufacturing or related industry.
• Strong skills in leadership, communication, persuasion, project management, and analytical/systems thinking.

Pay: The pay range for this position is $99,760 to $149,640. Compensation decisions include skill sets, experience and training, qualifications, and other business and organizational needs.

Bonus: This position is bonus eligible.

Long‑Term Incentive (LTI): This position is LTI eligible.

Benefits: Unilever employees are eligible to participate in our benefits plan, including health insurance, prescription drug, dental, vision coverage, retirement savings benefits, life insurance, disability benefits, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation, holidays, and numerous voluntary benefits, subject to the terms and conditions of applicable plans.

At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.

Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities.

Employment is subject to verification of pre‑screening tests, including drug screening, background check, credit check, and DMV check.

For assistance during our recruitment process, please contact N (email reserved for disability assistance).