Our client, a leading manufacturing and retailer in the food and beverage manufacturing space, is seeking a Plant Manager to lead all aspects of operations at a dairy manufacturing facility. This individual will be responsible for driving site performance across safety, quality, production, maintenance, continuous improvement, and employee engagement while developing a high-performing leadership team. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in dairy manufacturing (preferably fluid dairy) , demonstrated people leadership experience, and a track record of implementing TPM and operational excellence initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance day-to-day execution with long-term strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide overall leadership for plant operations, including production, quality, engineering, maintenance, HR, and continuous improvement functions. Develop, coach, and mentor plant leadership while building a culture of accountability, engagement, and performance. Drive results across safety, quality, productivity, cost, customer service, and employee development metrics. Champion TPM, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency and reliability. Lead annual operating plans, capital projects, and budget management efforts. Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Monitor plant performance through KPIs and implement corrective actions to achieve targeted business results. Partner with senior leadership to execute strategic initiatives and support long-term business objectives. Foster strong relationships with employees, suppliers, and external stakeholders. Promote a culture focused on operational excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations, or relevant field required. 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience with increasing levels of responsibility. 4+ years of experience leading teams (75+ employees) in a dairy manufacturing environment. TPM, Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement leadership experience. Strong understanding of plant operations, quality systems, food safety, maintenance, and supply chain processes. Proven leadership and talent development capabilities. Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and operational performance. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Union manufacturing experience is a plus.