Plant Manager

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Plant Manager to oversee and drive operations at a dynamic Converting Plant located near Milwaukee, WI. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in the converting manufacturing environment, with a focus on continuous improvement and lean methodologies to optimize performance. You will be leading a dedicated team of approximately 12 direct reports and will be pivotal in shaping the plant’s success through operational excellence, process innovation, and fostering a high-performance culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Development:
  Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 12 direct employees at a 125k square foot facility, ensuring alignment with company goals and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and safety. Provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities to create a high-performing team.
• Operations Management:
  Oversee day-to-day operations of the converting plant, ensuring that production goals, quality standards, and safety protocols are met or exceeded. Manage the production schedule and resource allocation to maintain high efficiency and minimal downtime.
• Continuous Improvement (CI):
  Drive the implementation and continuous improvement of lean tools and methodologies, including 5S, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), and Quick Changeover (QDF). Identify opportunities for process optimization, cost reduction, and waste elimination to improve overall operational efficiency and throughput.
• Quality Assurance & Safety:
  Ensure all manufacturing processes meet or exceed safety and quality standards. Collaborate with quality teams to implement corrective actions when needed and maintain a safe, compliant work environment for all employees.
• Budgeting & Cost Control:
  Oversee budgeting, production costs, and cost control initiatives, while identifying areas for cost reduction without compromising quality or operational performance.
• Reporting & KPI Tracking:
  Regularly report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production efficiency, downtime, safety incidents, and quality metrics to senior leadership. Proactively address areas for improvement.
• Project Management:
  Manage capital improvement projects and equipment upgrades, ensuring they align with long-term strategic goals and are delivered on time and within budget.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in a converting manufacturing environment (paper, film, foil, etc.), with a proven track record of success in managing production operations.
• At least 5 years of leadership experience in a converting plant or similar manufacturing environment, with hands-on management of production teams.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and tools, including 5S, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), and Quick Changeover (QDF), with a track record of successful implementation.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively manage and motivate a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address challenges proactively and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to report effectively to senior management and interact with employees at all levels of the organization.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field is preferred but not required.

Offerings:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement within a leading manufacturing company
• A collaborative, dynamic work environment with a focus on continuous improvement and team development
• The chance to make a tangible impact on the plant's success and operations
• Relocation benefits provided if needed

How to Apply:

If you’re a driven, results-oriented leader with a passion for manufacturing excellence and continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your resume to Jeanine Ellison at jeanine@worldbridgepartners.com or call her at 847-550-1300 x44.