Production Manager

Production ManagerOur client, a well-established heavy manufacturing organization, is seeking a Production Manager for its Newton, Iowa operation.This is a significant plant leadership role responsible for production performance, safety, quality, delivery, employee development and day-to-day execution within a three-shift manufacturing environment.The successful candidate will be more than a production scheduler or administrator. We are looking for a visible, hands-on manufacturing leader who can develop people, establish expectations, use operating metrics effectively and work across functions to improve plant performance.ResponsibilitiesPlan, direct and coordinate production activities to achieve safety, quality, delivery and cost objectivesMaintain a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with company and regulatory safety, health and environmental requirementsMonitor plant and production performance through appropriate operating reports, metrics and performance measuresCoordinate production activities with maintenance, engineering, quality and other plant functionsDevelop performance targets and hold leaders and employees accountable for achieving themMonitor production schedules and adjust priorities and resources as necessary to accomplish manufacturing goalsCoach, train and develop supervisors and production employeesIdentify high-potential employees and help develop succession capability within the organizationBuild employee engagement through visible leadership, communication, dignity, respect and consistent accountabilityIdentify operational problems and participate in continuous improvement effortsExercise independent judgment in resolving production, staffing and operational issuesProvide additional leadership coverage when required to meet production commitmentsSupport budgeting, expense management and efficient utilization of plant resourcesQualificationsMinimum of 5 years of progressive manufacturing leadership or management experienceDemonstrated experience leading production teams in a manufacturing environmentWorking knowledge of manufacturing operations, production planning, maintenance, engineering and cost/expense managementExperience in welding, metal fabrication, assembly, paint or related heavy manufacturing operations is highly desirableAbility to understand and use production, safety and quality metrics to drive performanceStrong leadership, communication, coaching and problem-solving capabilitiesAbility to work effectively across departments and organizational levelsBachelor's degree preferred; substantial relevant manufacturing leadership experience will be consideredProficiency with standard Microsoft Office applicationsWork EnvironmentThis is a full-time, onsite position at a manufacturing facility in Newton, Iowa. The operation runs three shifts and frequently operates weekends.The Production Manager must be comfortable spending significant time in production areas and being available beyond normal working hours when operating conditions require additional leadership coverage. Mandatory overtime, including weekends, may occasionally be required.The manufacturing environment includes exposure to temperature variations and the noise and activity associated with a heavy industrial operation.Ideal BackgroundCandidates who have led teams in metal fabrication, welding, heavy equipment, structural products, industrial equipment, automotive, agricultural equipment or other durable-goods manufacturing environments should translate particularly well.We are especially interested in leaders who can balance two things: getting today's production out the door and building a stronger organization for tomorrow.The right person will bring floor credibility, operational discipline and the ability to develop people while maintaining high expectations for safety, quality and performance.