Plant Operations Leader - Aseptic Beverage Manufacturing - Executive Leaders Search : Job Details

Job Description: Plant Operations Leader - Aseptic Beverage Manufacturing

Position: Plant Operations Leader

Industry: Aseptic Beverage Manufacturing

About Us:

We are a dynamic aseptic beverage producer committed to operational excellence and continuous growth. We seek an experienced, hands-on Plant Manager with a proven history in complex, high-volume production environments such as breweries or food manufacturing. This role is perfect for someone who has advanced through practical, on- the-floor management, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.

Role Summary:

The Plant Manager will oversee daily operations of our aseptic beverage facility, ensuring safety, efficiency, quality, and regulatory compliance. Ideal candidates will have deep experience in complex manufacturing environments, preferably with exposure to low aseptic production. Key strengths include leadership in Lean or Six Sigma, operational excellence, people-focused management, and a solid understanding of the broader business impact of plant operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operations Leadership:

• Manage all plant functions, including production, maintenance, quality, and supply chain to meet or exceed production schedules and standards.
• Drive OEE improvements, optimize performance, and implement best practices in lean manufacturing.

2. People-Centric and Servant Leadership:

• Foster a team-oriented culture on the plant floor, focusing on safety, quality, and workforce engagement.
• Actively mentor and develop front-line leaders and production staff. o Maintain productive relationships with the employees, ensuring collaborative workforce relations.

3. Continuous Improvement & Data-Driven Decision Making:

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies to optimize plant operations.
• Utilize data and statistical analysis to monitor KPIs, make informed decisions, and implement process improvements.
• Conduct regular GEMBA walks to engage employees in problem-solving and maintain a culture of continuous improvement.

4. Quality & Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to all regulatory standards, including GMP, FDA, SQF, HACCP, and OSHA, while leading successful regulatory audits and implementing corrective actions.
• Prioritize quality and safety as core values, maintaining high standards in all production processes.

5. Financial Accountability and Strategic Focus:

• Oversee the plant's P&L, budgeting, and forecasting, identifying cost-saving opportunities and driving alignment with financial goals.
• Prepare and manage CAPEX projects for equipment upgrades, expansion, and other strategic investments aligned with P&L targets.

6. Project and Change Management:

• Lead capital improvements, equipment installations, and other critical projects, coordinating with cross functional teams to ensure timelines and budgets are met.
• Foster a culture of adaptability, strategic focus, and operational discipline, leading cultural and process transformations as needed.

7. Strong Communication and Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Build transparent, solution-focused relationships with Procurement, HR, Quality, Sales, and other departments, driving alignment and accountability across the organization.
• Act as an effective communicator at all levels, influencing stakeholders and maintaining a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 15+ years in plant management, preferably in food, beverage, or similarly complex production environments. Prior experience with low aseptic or similar settings is highly preferred.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, Food Science, or a related field; certifications in Lean Six Sigma, TPM, or related methodologies are a plus.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in ERP systems and experienced in Lean Manufacturing, TPM, and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Leadership Style: Collaborative and people-focused with a track record of fostering team development and building a supportive work environment.
• Communication: Exceptional communicator skilled in both team-oriented and cross-departmental collaboration to resolve issues and achieve shared goals.

Why Join Us?

• Become an influential part of an innovative, fast-growing company in the aseptic beverage space.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• A company culture that values hard work, practical experience, and accountability, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.