Plant Manager

We are looking for an experienced Plant Manager to lead a 24/7 whey protein and cheese manufacturing facility. In this role, you will own end‑to‑end plant operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, food quality, efficiency, and people development. You will set and execute the site operations strategy, align cross‑functional resources, and drive continuous improvement to consistently exceed business and customer expectations.

This position is a critical leadership role across production, maintenance, warehousing, and engineering, while partnering closely with Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, and Commercial teams.

What We Offer

• A leadership role with operational ownership at a complex, high‑impact manufacturing site
• The opportunity to influence strategy, performance, and culture in a 24/7 operation
• A strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement
• Work on capital projects, advanced dairy processing technologies, and sustainability initiatives
• A collaborative environment that values respect, accountability, and teamwork
• Competitive compensation and benefits package

As Plant Manager, you will lead operations to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient production in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Championing a zero‑harm safety culture and ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards
• Developing and executing the site operations strategy, annual plan, and budget aligned with long‑term business objectives
• Leading production planning and execution to meet demand, optimize capacity, and deliver on‑time, in‑full (OTIF) service
• Partnering with Maintenance and Engineering to drive asset reliability, preventive maintenance, and shutdown planning
• Overseeing utilities and environmental performance, including energy and water efficiency
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to improve OEE, waste reduction, and productivity
• Managing operating costs, monitoring KPIs, and delivering performance through data‑driven decision making
• Leading, developing, and coaching a high‑performing operations team across all shifts
• Sponsoring capital projects from business case through commissioning and handover
• Ensuring clear communication and strong collaboration across functions
• This role reports to the Director of Ingredients North America and may require infrequent domestic or international travel.

What We Ask

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Supply Chain, or a related field

• 10+ years of operations or production leadership experience in food or dairy manufacturing, including at least 5 years in a 24/7, multi‑shift environment
• Deep knowledge of whey processing and cheese production, including UF/MF, pasteurization, evaporation, spray drying, and packaging
• Strong working knowledge of cGMP, HACCP, sanitation, and OSHA/EPA requirements
• Proven ability to lead Lean or Six Sigma initiatives and improve OEE, yield, cost, and service
• Solid financial acumen, including budgeting and CAPEX management
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross‑functional influencing skills

Preferred qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Business, Operations, or a related discipline
• Experience managing ammonia refrigeration, boilers/steam, utilities, and wastewater systems
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification
• Experience in SQF/BRC or other GFSI‑certified environments

Behave in alignment with Friesland Campina values:

• We Act With Respect
• We Aim Higher
• We Succeed Together

We are an equal opportunity employer. Friesland Campina expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under the law.

An inspiring purpose

Better nutrition for the world and a good living for our farmers, now and for generations to come.

A cooperative culture

Driven by global collaboration, respect, and shared success

Space to aim higher, with autonomy and a clear focus

Your growth fuels ours

We invest in your personal and professional development through training and education.