Plant Director

Reference: PR/ _ Plant DirectorPlant DirectorMadison WI$150,000 to $200,000 + Bonus + Strong Company BenefitsA very well respected national Food org is looking to hire a New Plant Director to help deliver a turnaround program for one of its Flagship facilities, and help springboard the business to its next level of growth. Along with developing a world-class team, the Leader will be responsible for selecting and implementing various new changes, including machinery, tools & systems, manufacturing practices, and employee succession planning.Key Responsibilities:Provide strategic and operational leadership for all plant activities, ensuring achievement of production, quality, delivery, cost, and safety objectives.Drive operational excellence by optimizing manufacturing processes, improving productivity, reducing waste, and enhancing overall plant performance.Champion a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, innovation, and employee engagement across all levels of the organization.Lead and develop high-performing teams through coaching, succession planning, talent development, and performance management initiatives.Ensure full compliance with all health, safety, environmental, quality, OSHA, EPA, and regulatory requirements while fostering a zero-harm workplace culture.Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute long-term operational strategies that support business growth, scalability, and profitability.Leverage data, performance metrics, and industry best practices to drive informed decision-making and sustainable operational improvements.Oversee the implementation and optimization of business systems, technologies, and process improvement tools, including ERP, WMS, and related manufacturing platforms.Build strong cross-functional relationships and collaborate with stakeholders across the organization to ensure alignment, execution, and achievement of business objectives.Maintain operational governance through accurate documentation, reporting, and administrative controls while assuming additional responsibilities as required to support organizational success.The successful candidate will ideally have:Bachelor's degree in Business, Manufacturing, Food Science, or a related discipline, complemented by extensive leadership experience within complex manufacturing environments.10+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including 10+ years in food manufacturing and 5+ years leading operations as a Plant Manager, Site Leader, or Director of Operations.Comprehensive knowledge of food safety, GMP, quality systems, and regulatory compliance, with a strong commitment to maintaining safe, compliant, and high-performing operations.Demonstrated expertise in operational excellence, including ERP/WMS platforms, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives that drive efficiency and business results.Proven people leader with exceptional communication, organizational, change management, and cultural transformation capabilities, successfully developing high-performing teams in fast-paced environments.