Plant Manager

Plant 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.