Head of Operations & Business Management

Operations Manager, Global Packaging Manufacturer
Pine Bluff, Arkansas | Relocation Assistance Available

Athena Executive Search & Selection is delighted to be recruiting an experienced Operations Manager for a key manufacturing facility in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

This is a senior leadership opportunity within a highly respected international business, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service. Reporting directly to VP level, you will play a pivotal role in leading operational performance, developing high-performing teams, and driving continuous improvement across the site.

As Operations Manager, you will have full operational responsibility for this strategically important manufacturing facility, ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

You will lead and develop a skilled workforce while delivering operational excellence through strong leadership, financial management, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Provide overall leadership for all manufacturing operations at the site.

Ensure compliance with all health, safety, quality, production, and shipping standards.

Lead production operations to achieve operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Develop, manage, and deliver the site's operational budget.

Optimise manufacturing processes to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.

Lead, coach, and develop operational teams, supporting succession planning and employee development.

Champion Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and improve operational performance.

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Technical Discipline, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.

Minimum of 5 years' experience in a leadership or management role.

Experience within packaging, converting, paper, plastics, chemicals or another relevant manufacturing environment would be advantageous.

Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, safety regulations, and quality management systems.

Strong commercial awareness with experience managing operational budgets and costs.

Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Experience using ERP systems and production planning software.

Personal Attributes

Inspirational leader with excellent coaching and mentoring skills.

Strong business acumen and commercial awareness.

Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering operational excellence.

Excellent planning, organisational, and execution skills.

Relocation assistance available, if required.

If you are an experienced manufacturing leader looking to take the next step in your career with a world-class packaging manufacturer, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Click Apply Now to find out more or to submit your application in confidence.

All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence.

#