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.

About the Opportunity

We’re partnering with a fourth-generation, family-owned manufacturer that has been serving the pet industry for more than 75 years. With multiple U.S. plants, strong food safety standards, ongoing reinvestment, and no private equity influence, this is a business built for long-term stability and growth. This Plant Manager opportunity is open due to an internal move, and it sits at one of the company’s best-running sites. The operation is established, the team is strong, and the environment offers the chance to step into a high-visibility leadership role where you can make an impact without getting bogged down by unnecessary layers or constant meetings.

What You’ll Do

You’ll lead a smooth-running plant operation focused on animal treats, overseeing production and warehouse activity while helping maintain strong day-to-day execution. This site operates on a 2-10s schedule, four days per week, with some Friday work as needed. The plant includes three production lines and seven packaging lines, though typically four packaging lines are running at a time. You’ll coordinate across departments, support accountability, and help keep the operation moving efficiently while also being able to interface with customers when needed.

Who You Are

You’re a high-energy leader with strong standards and a natural sense of accountability. You know how to coordinate people and priorities, keep departments aligned, and maintain momentum in an established manufacturing environment. This role is not looking for a longtime Plant Manager veteran. It is a strong fit for someone who has been a Production Manager at a larger site or an Operations Manager and is ready for the next step. Pet food experience is not required, but manufacturing experience is important.

Preferred Experience & Attributes

• Experience in a manufacturing environment
• Background as a Production Manager at a larger site or an Operations Manager
• Ability to lead teams and coordinate across departments
• High standards with a strong sense of accountability
• Comfortable interfacing with customers
• Energy, presence, and the ability to keep a good operation running well

Why This Role Matters

This is a chance to step into a leadership role at a highly established location with a fantastic team already in place. The company is growing, reinvesting heavily, and makes it easy to gain approval for capital improvements, giving this role strong visibility and the ability to make a real impact. It is also an opportunity to join a stable, family-owned business with no debt, strong benefits, and a long-term mindset. For the right person, this role offers both support and room to grow.