Plant Manager (Animal Feed)

A well-established and diversified agricultural company is seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead one of its newer, growing facilities in Illinois . This opportunity is being conducted confidentially and represents a key leadership role within an organization that is investing in growth, people, and production capabilities.

The Opportunity
The Plant Manager will have full responsibility for day-to-day plant operations with a strong focus on increasing production, improving efficiencies, and developing a high-performing team . This is a hands-on leadership role within a modern facility that is positioned for continued expansion.

The company offers a competitive compensation package, strong leadership support, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact at the plant level.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all plant operations, including production, safety, quality, and maintenance

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase throughput and operational efficiency

Develop, mentor, and hold accountable plant supervisors and hourly teams

Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards

Partner with senior leadership to support growth initiatives and capital improvements

Monitor KPIs, manage budgets, and support production planning

Ideal Background

Proven management experience in a commercial feed mill is strongly preferred

Will also consider leaders from food manufacturing, pet food, or other agricultural manufacturing environments where mixing/blending ingredients into a finished product is core to operations

Demonstrated success leading teams and improving production performance

Strong operational, problem-solving, and communication skills

Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented manufacturing environment

Compensation & Benefits

Base salary: $100,000-$150,000 , depending on experience

Bonus opportunity

Competitive benefits package

Long-term growth and leadership advancement potential

Why Consider This Role

Newer facility with room to grow and improve

Leadership role with real influence on production and performance

Stable, diverse agribusiness with a strong market presence

Confidential search-your information will be handled discreetly

If you are a plant leader looking for a next-step opportunity where your experience can directly impact growth and performance, this role is worth exploring.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.