Operations Manager

Guided Search Partners (GSP) Guided Search Partners is an Executive Search firm built on Trust, Transparency, Specialization, and Long‑term Relationships. We connect high‑performing professionals with organizations that value people, performance, and growth—helping leaders find roles where they can make an impact and build meaningful careers.

We’re partnering with a folding carton manufacturing facility in Nebraska seeking an Operations Manager. This is a strong opportunity to step into an impressive, large‑scale plant with a solid foundation and room to grow. The site is approximately 450,000 sq. ft. and supports food industry packaging with printing, sheeting, cutting, and finishing operations. The plant has made strong improvements, especially in printing, and offers a great platform for a leader who wants to keep building momentum.

This is a fit for someone with manufacturing management experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to lead through people, process, and accountability.

You’ll help lead production operations across multiple manufacturing areas while supporting safety, quality, performance, and employee engagement.

• Lead and support department managers across production areas
• Monitor operational and financial performance
• Ensure quality and safety standards are maintained
• Support employee hiring, training, development, and accountability
• Help build a culture where employees feel respected and engaged
• Adapt department plans and priorities to meet daily challenges
• Resolve operational, scheduling, and technical issues
• Support SQF, root cause, and corrective action processes
• Help drive structure, communication, and continued plant improvement

You are a manufacturing leader who communicates well, builds trust, and knows how to get teams moving in the same direction. You bring the right mix of urgency, discipline, and approachability. You can work through challenges, support managers who are still developing, and keep the focus on safety, quality, and performance. You would do well here if you are a self‑starter who enjoys being part of a strong plant with room to learn, grow, and make a visible impact.

• Manufacturing management experience
• 8+ years of experience preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or related work experience in lieu of degree
• Experience leading managers, supervisors, or production teams
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Business acumen and problem‑solving ability
• Ability to influence, guide, and develop others
• Experience supporting safety, quality, and operational performance
• SQF or food packaging environment experience helpful
• Self‑starter with curiosity, accountability, and strong follow‑through

This role matters because the plant is in a strong position and needs a leader who can continue building on that progress. With a large footprint, multiple production areas, and a developing leadership team, the Operations Manager will play an important role in strengthening structure, accountability, and day‑to‑day execution. For someone who wants growth, visibility, and the chance to help lead an impressive facility, this is a strong next step.