Production Manager

Our client, a leading manufacturer of paper packaging products for the food industry, is seeking a Production Manager to help lead an exciting startup operation. In this pivotal leadership role, you'll oversee multi-shift production, build and develop a strong team, and drive performance through strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and daily execution.

With a focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence, you’ll play a critical part in shaping our plant culture and delivering consistent, reliable results as we bring new production lines online.

What We Offer:

• A leadership opportunity to shape and grow a new, state-of-the-art paper converting manufacturing facility
• A chance to build a high-performance team from the ground up
• Competitive salary and full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off
• Professional development and leadership training opportunities
• A values-driven, collaborative environment focused on safety, service, and continuous improvement

What You’ll Do – Results:

• Manage shift scheduling, staffing, and resource allocation to ensure smooth, efficient operations
• Lead production teams with a focus on safety, quality, service, and productivity
• Use KPIs and daily management tools to track performance and drive data-based decisions
• Identify trends, resolve bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions to achieve daily goals
• Coach, develop, and engage team members at all levels to build a culture of high performance
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aligned with Lean principles and plant priorities
• Coordinate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams
• Maintain strong adherence to GMP and safety standards

What You Bring – Competencies:

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
• A strategic mindset that connects day-to-day execution with long-term business goals
• High personal accountability and a commitment to team performance
• Systems thinker with the ability to manage complexity and prioritize effectively
• Strong focus on customer satisfaction, quality standards, and safety compliance
• Collaborative and approachable leadership style, grounded in mutual respect and trust

Experience and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree
• Five (5) years of manufacturing operations management or leadership assignments demonstrating a progression of increased scope and responsibility
• Five (5) years of supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment
• Proven experience in manufacturing operations leadership
• Background in paper converting, packaging, or related industries preferred
• Comfortable managing multi-shift or continuous operations
• Experience in hiring and developing skilled, motivated teams
• Familiarity with Lean tools, continuous improvement, and daily management systems
• Financial and operational understanding to manage budgets, labor, and efficiency metrics
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and production systems
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Work Schedule & Travel: 

• Initial schedule will be Monday–Friday 8:00AM – 5:00PM.
• Will transition to 24/7 operations later this year; flexibility required.