Plant Manager

Job Overview:
Search Solution Group is seeking a Plant Manager on behalf of our client, a food and beverage company. The Plant Manager will oversee daily plant operations with a strong focus on safety, quality, food safety, productivity, cost management, and employee development. This leader will be responsible for creating a high-performing operational environment while ensuring products are produced safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain a strong safety culture throughout the plant.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and proactively identify and mitigate workplace hazards.
• Lead by example in promoting safe work practices at every level of the organization.
• Oversee quality assurance and food safety programs to ensure products meet or exceed company and regulatory standards.
• Promote continuous improvement in food quality, safety, and manufacturing processes.
• Manage plant budgets, expenses, and resources to drive cost-effective operations.
• Identify and implement productivity improvements without compromising safety or quality.
• Monitor key operational metrics, analyze trends, and implement corrective actions when needed.
• Ensure the timely, efficient, and uninterrupted production and supply of products to customers.
• Partner with supply chain, logistics, and customer service teams to anticipate and resolve production bottlenecks and disruptions.
• Lead, motivate, develop, and engage the plant workforce.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, teamwork, and employee engagement.
• Mentor team members and identify opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Support change management and performance management initiatives.
• Drive continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives throughout the facility.
• Promote initiatives that improve employee morale, productivity, and overall plant performance.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements include:
Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, including Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in the food manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience managing plant or manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrated experience leading, developing, and engaging diverse teams.
• Experience with change management, talent development, and performance management.
• Experience driving continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to analyze operational metrics and identify trends and corrective actions.
• Strong budgeting and cost-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Proficiency in English.

Certifications:

• Relevant food safety, quality, lean manufacturing, or safety certifications are preferred.

Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and regulations.
• HACCP, GMP, and ISO 22000 principles.
• Workplace safety regulations and best practices.
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools.
• Plant operations, production processes, and resource management.
• Quality assurance and food safety programs.
• Budgeting, cost control, and operational performance metrics.
• Change management and employee development practices.

Key Competencies:

• Leadership: Inspires and develops employees while establishing clear expectations and accountability.
• Safety-Focused: Makes workplace safety and food safety a priority in all operational decisions.
• Operational Excellence: Continuously looks for opportunities to improve efficiency, productivity, quality, and cost performance.
• Strategic Thinking: Connects plant operations to broader organizational and customer objectives.
• Problem Solving: Identifies operational challenges and implements effective, sustainable solutions.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of plant performance, results, and employee development.
• Communication: Effectively communicates expectations, goals, changes, and performance across all levels.
• Change Management: Successfully leads teams through process, organizational, and operational changes.
• Team Development: Builds a strong, engaged workforce and provides opportunities for employee growth.
• Decision Making: Uses data, operational metrics, and sound judgment to make timely business decisions.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please click the "Apply" button at the top right of your screen. Alternatively, you can email your application to View email address on click.appcast.io . Please ensure to include your resume and any other relevant documents or information that showcase your qualifications and suitability for the role. We appreciate your interest in joining our team and look forward to reviewing your application.

Company Overview:
Company Industry: Food and Beverage

Location: Fort Mill, South Carolina

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Search Solution Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status in our hiring process or employment practices. We believe that a diverse workforce brings unique perspectives and strengths, driving innovation and growth. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to our team.

Disclaimer:
Please note that the job description provided is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to meet the evolving needs of the organization and to ensure the successful completion of projects and objectives.