What are the responsibilities and job description for the Plant Manager position at Red Kite Recruiting?
We are working with a well known meat manufacturer in Chicago that is seeking a dynamic Plant Manager. This role will oversee Operations, Maintenance, and Warehousing/Shipping, driving efficiency, quality, and team development in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
✅ Improve operational culture and training to reduce turnover to 60%, with a long-term goal of 40%.
✅ Shift focus to a total OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) model, ensuring real-time improvements in throughput and quality.
✅ Enhance first-pass quality rates to minimize rework and downgrade expenses.
✅ Develop and mentor operational leaders from Supervisors to Plant Manager level to strengthen the leadership pipeline.
✅ Lead continuous improvement projects to optimize productivity and reduce costs.
✅ Own and deliver the operational budget, including safety, financial planning, and labor strategy.
✅ Foster collaboration with purchasing, finance, HR, and IT to drive plant-wide success.
Ideal Candidate:
🔹 Proven leadership experience overseeing 500 employees in a manufacturing environment.
🔹 Strong continuous improvement and change management skills to drive operational excellence.
🔹 Hands-on, on-the-floor leader and mentor, capable of developing an inexperienced team.
🔹 Expertise in safety, quality, productivity, and financial performance.
This is a high-impact role for a leader who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing and is passionate about driving efficiency, team development, and operational excellence.
📍 Location: Chicago Area
💲 Competitive compensation package with strong benefits
