We are seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead manufacturing operations, oversee plant performance, and drive improvements in safety, quality, productivity, and profitability. The ideal candidate has extensive manufacturing leadership experience, a strong background in profit and loss management, and the ability to lead unionized teams while maintaining regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

Position Responsibilities

Manufacturing Operations

Oversee daily plant operations to ensure production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules are met.
Develop and implement strategies to improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization.
Monitor production processes, work-in-progress, and batch manufacturing activities.
Identify operational challenges and implement effective corrective actions.

Financial and Business Performance

Manage plant profit and loss (P&L), including budgets, operating costs, and financial performance.
Develop and monitor key performance indicators to measure productivity, quality, safety, and profitability.
Identify cost-reduction opportunities while maintaining product quality and operational reliability.

Team Leadership and Labor Relations

Lead and develop manufacturing supervisors, managers, and plant personnel.
Maintain effective working relationships with union representatives and employees.
Support workforce planning, employee development, performance management, and labor relations.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Safety and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure compliance with OSHA requirements and applicable manufacturing regulations.
Maintain safe working conditions and promote workplace safety initiatives.
Oversee adherence to quality management systems, operational procedures, and industry standards.

Continuous Improvement and Technology

Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and quality.
Evaluate opportunities for automation and process optimization.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support manufacturing goals and business objectives.

Prerequisites

Previous experience as a Plant Manager in a manufacturing environment.
At least 10 years of experience in manufacturing; warehouse or distribution experience alone does not meet this requirement.
Demonstrated profit and loss (P&L) responsibility.
Experience managing unionized employees in a manufacturing setting.
Experience with Tier I–Tier III manufacturing operations involving batch production or work-in-progress (WIP) processes.
Working knowledge of OSHA requirements and regulatory compliance in manufacturing.
Strong leadership, financial management, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Ability to analyze operational performance and implement process improvements.

Certifications (Preferred, but Not Required)

Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
Lean Manufacturing or Lean Six Sigma certification.
IATF 16949 or ISO quality management systems training or certification.
OSHA safety training or certification.
Additional training in manufacturing operations, automation, or continuous improvement.

What the Role Offers

Annual salary of $180,000–$200,000.
A senior leadership opportunity with responsibility for plant performance and profitability.
The opportunity to lead manufacturing improvements, operational strategy, and workforce development.
Opportunities to enhance production efficiency, safety, quality, and cost performance.

Preferred additional experience includes chemical manufacturing, automation, SAP, automotive OEM supplier relationships such as Ford, and familiarity with IATF 16949 or ISO standards.

Why Manchester?

Manchester offers access to a diverse manufacturing and industrial environment, providing opportunities for experienced plant leaders to support operational growth and process improvement. Its regional business network and manufacturing workforce make it a suitable setting for advancing production efficiency, strengthening labor relations, and maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and profitability.