We’ve been retained by a global leader in ingredients and flavors to identify a talented Plant Manager to lead the launch and operations of a brand-new flavor manufacturing plant in the Greater Chicago Area! This is a high-impact role responsible for overseeing construction, assembling and developing a high-performing operations team, and ensuring the site meets critical safety, quality, cost, and performance objectives! This role reports to the CEO.

Location: Greater Chicago Area (Hybrid)
Travel: ~25%

Essential Job Functions:

• Oversee the construction and commissioning of the plant in partnership with corporate project teams
• Lead the installation and qualification of production equipment and internal logistics
• Hire, onboard, and manage a local operations team (production, logistics, maintenance)
• Guarantee operational KPIs: safety, quality, cost, service level
• Establish local procedures and align with global production and quality standards
• Coordinate with R&D, Supply Chain, and Quality functions
• Manage local suppliers and service providers
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Kaizen)
• Report plant performance and risks to headquarters

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, or related field
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in plant or operations management
• Flavor manufacturing experience required
• Proven leadership experience and excellent team-building skills
• Experience with ERP systems
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize and manage time effectively
• Proven management of high-paced responsiveness and communication with representatives throughout the company
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong strategic planning and analytical skills

Base salary range of $140,000 - $160,000 based on years of experience and bonus opportunity based on performance. Other benefits include medical/dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401(k) plan, paid company holidays, and paid time off. This compensation range reflects the company's expectations for this position at the time of posting. Actual pay will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, alignment with role responsibilities, education, demonstrated skills, and performance during the interview process.

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