Plant Manager
confidentialWaukesha County (WI)
About the role
A growing manufacturer is seeking an experienced Plant Manager to lead the overall operations of its Waukesha manufacturing facility. This leadership role is responsible for driving operational excellence, safety, quality, financial performance, and employee engagement while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has experience in plastic injection molding, paint or coatings manufacturing, and leading complex manufacturing operations with full P&L responsibility.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead all aspects of plant operations, including Production, Quality, Maintenance, Engineering, Materials, Safety, and Continuous Improvement. Manage full P&L performance, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and EBITDA improvement initiatives. Drive operational excellence through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. Ensure production meets customer expectations for quality, delivery, cost, and safety. Develop and mentor plant leadership while fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement. Collaborate with commercial and operations teams to support customer requirements and business objectives. Oversee capital equipment projects, facility improvements, and operational investments. Monitor key performance indicators, including safety, productivity, OEE, scrap, labor efficiency, inventory, and on-time delivery. Ensure compliance with environmental, health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field preferred.8+ years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, including experience leading a manufacturing facility. Experience in plastic injection molding and/or paint or coatings manufacturing. Experience supporting OEM manufacturing or other highly regulated manufacturing environments. Demonstrated success managing P&L performance and driving EBITDA improvement. Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement principles. Experience leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong financial acumen, business planning, and operational leadership skills. Excellent communication, coaching, and change management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience within the motor vehicle, industrial manufacturing, consumer products, or durable goods industries. Familiarity with ISO or other quality management systems. Experience with ERP/MRP systems. Proven success leading continuous improvement and operational transformation initiatives.
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