Plant Manager / Director

Overview Our client, a well-established manufacturing organization in the Cleveland, Ohio area, is seeking an experienced Plant Manager / Director to lead all aspects of site operations. This is a senior leadership role responsible for driving safety, quality, productivity and profitability across the facility. The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader who can build high-performing teams and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities • Provide strategic and day-to-day leadership for all plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality, engineering, materials and logistics • Champion a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with OSHA, environmental and company standards • Develop and manage the plant’s operating budget, controlling costs and driving profitability against financial targets • Set, track and report on key performance indicators such as safety, quality, on-time delivery, OEE, scrap and labor efficiency • Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and related methodologies • Ensure products meet quality standards and customer requirements, supporting ISO or other relevant certifications • Oversee production planning and scheduling to meet customer demand while optimizing capacity and inventory levels • Recruit, develop, coach and retain a strong leadership team and workforce, including succession planning • Foster positive employee relations and engagement, working effectively in a union or non-union environment as applicable • Direct capital expenditure planning and lead equipment, facility and technology improvement projects • Collaborate with sales, supply chain, engineering and corporate leadership to align plant operations with business objectives • Manage preventive maintenance programs to maximize equipment reliability and uptime • Serve as the primary site representative for customers, auditors, regulators and the local community • Prepare and present regular operational and financial reports to senior leadership Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business or a related field (MBA a plus) • 10+ years of manufacturing experience, including at least 5 years in a plant leadership role (Plant Manager, Operations Manager or similar) • Proven track record of improving safety, quality, delivery and cost performance • Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement tools; Six Sigma certification preferred • Full P&L or budget management experience • Demonstrated ability to lead, develop and motivate large, multi-shift teams • Experience with ERP/MRP systems and data-driven decision making • Excellent communication, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills • Familiarity with OSHA, EPA and ISO standards Benefits and Compensation Our client is offering a competitive base salary of $150,000 – $200,000 per year, depending on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including: • Performance-based annual bonus • Medical, dental and vision insurance • 401(k) with company match • Paid time off and paid holidays • Life and disability insurance • Professional development opportunities