Plant Manager - HR Now Talent Network
Madison, WI 53701
About the Job
Job Title: Plant Manager
Department: Operations
Reports To: Chief Operating Officer
Summary:
The Plant Manager is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all operations of our frozen dessert manufacturing facility at Heidi's Frozen Delights. This includes managing production, quality assurance, maintenance, safety, and employee relations. The successful candidate will drive efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement while ensuring the highest quality products are delivered to our customers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Production Management:
Oversee the entire production process, ensuring it meets volume, quality, and cost targets.
Implement lean manufacturing principles to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
Manage production schedules to meet customer demand and inventory levels.
Quality Assurance:
Ensure adherence to strict food safety and quality standards.
Maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality.
Oversee the quality control team and laboratory operations.
Maintenance:
Develop and implement a preventive maintenance program to minimize downtime.
Oversee facility maintenance and repairs.
Manage the maintenance team and ensure their skills are up-to-date.
Safety:
Create and maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
Ensure compliance with all safety regulations.
Lead safety training programs and promote a safety-first culture.
Employee Relations:
Manage a team of over 100 employees, including production supervisors, quality control personnel, maintenance technicians, and other support staff.
Foster a positive and engaging work environment.
Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and development opportunities.
Address employee concerns and resolve conflicts in a timely manner.
Financial Management:
Develop and manage the plant's operating budget.
Analyze production costs and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Prepare financial reports and forecasts.
Continuous Improvement:
Lead continuous improvement efforts to enhance productivity, quality, and safety.
Implement new technologies and processes to optimize operations.
Foster a culture of innovation and problem-solving.
Requirements
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in engineering, food science, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a plant management role.
Proven track record of leading a large manufacturing facility and achieving operational excellence.
Strong knowledge of food safety and quality standards.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Experience in managing budgets and financial performance.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Lean manufacturing experience is a plus.
Benefits
Benefits:
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Opportunity to lead a dynamic and growing manufacturing operation.
Contribute to the success of a leading frozen dessert company.
Work in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Qualifications: Education: Bachelor's Degree in biology, chemistry, microbiology, food technology, or a related field. Ability to work in a refrigerated environment (30ºF to 45ºF) for extended periods (up to 12 hours). Physical capability to lift up to 50 pounds. Strong teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Experience: Minimum of 6 years of experience as a QA Manager in a food manufacturing environment. At least 8 years of experience working within food production.