We are searching for a Plant Manager with food and beverage industry or CPG experience to oversee the daily operations of a growing, private-equity backed, manufacturing facility in the Kansas City area. This high energy leader will be responsible for ensuring efficient production, quality standards, and adherence to safety protocols and is pivotal in maintaining smooth operations, optimizing processes, and managing a team to meet production targets while upholding regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

   • Direct and coordinate plant operations, overseeing production, processing, packaging, and shipping.
   • Develop and implement production schedules to meet customer demands while optimizing resources.
   • Ensure adherence to quality control standards, maintaining product integrity and consistency.

2. Team Leadership:

   • Recruit, train, and manage a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration, safety, and efficiency.
   • Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance evaluations.

3. Process Improvement:

   • Identify areas for process enhancement, cost reduction, and increased efficiency.
   • Implement continuous improvement initiatives to streamline operations and maximize output.

4. Safety and Compliance:

   • Uphold safety protocols, ensuring a secure working environment and compliance with regulatory standards (FDA, OSHA, etc.).
   • Develop and enforce procedures for handling hazardous materials and maintaining a clean, safe workplace.

5. Inventory and Supply Chain Management:

   • Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with procurement to ensure adequate supplies for uninterrupted production.
   • Optimize supply chain processes to minimize waste and reduce lead times.

6. Budgeting and Reporting:

   • Develop and manage budgets, analyzing variances and implementing corrective actions as needed.
   • Generate regular reports on production metrics, costs, and KPIs for management review.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, food science, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience (typically 5+ years) in a managerial role within food and beverage manufacturing.
• In-depth knowledge of production processes, quality control, and safety standards within the industry - Lean Process Management experience is particularly important and valuable.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and cost optimization.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Additional Notes: This role demands a hands-on approach, strong problem-solving abilities, and the flexibility to manage a dynamic production environment. The plant manager serves as a crucial link between production, quality assurance, and overall business success. Adaptability to changing market demands and technological advancements is essential for success in this role.