Plant Manager - Spray Drying Ingredients

Plant Manager –Spray Dried Ingredients

Rockford, IL

Our client is a growing specialty ingredients manufacturer based in the greater Chicago area with their key plant in the Rockford, IL area. They are currently looking for an experienced PLANT MANAGER with SPRAY DRYING experience to run and manage their main plant. Relocation assistance is available!

The Plant Manager will be responsible for managing a plant with approx.. 60 full time employees while ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations while meeting production targets and maintaining the highest quality standards in this spray drying facility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage day-to-day operations of the manufacturing plant.
• Develop and implement production schedules and workflows to meet company objectives and deadlines.
• Coordinate with other departments, such as procurement, maintenance, and quality control, to ensure smooth production processes.
• Monitor production metrics and implement process improvements to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Train, mentor, and supervise production staff, including hiring and performance evaluations.
• Resolve production issues and address customer complaints in a timely manner.
• Oversee inventory management to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize wastage.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop strategic plans for business growth and sustainability.
• Procure necessary resources to ensure the effective operation of the production department.
• Participate as an active member in safety, quality, and food safety committees; conduct accident reviews, investigations, and special safety assignments.
• Enforce all company policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Keep employees informed on factors relating to their work assignment, work progress, and opportunities for advancement.
• Develop and implement improvements and changes in work instructions, job descriptions, and training needs.
• Address employee relation issues as needed.

Qualifications:

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration, or a related field;
• Must have experience as a Production Manager, Plant Manager or similar management role with a food manufacturer
• Prefer candidates with some SPRAY DRYING exposure
• Must have strong leadership and managerial skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Must have excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Should have in-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality standards, and health and safety regulations.
• Should be proficient in MS Office and ERP software; experience with manufacturing management software is a plus.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written is a must.