Our client has exclusively retained StevenDouglas to pursue and discover an experienced

operations leader to join their leadership team as Plant Manager. The role is based on their

Macon, GA campus and offers a unique opportunity to substantially impact operational

performance and cultural integration.

We seek a hands-on, strategic leader to drive process optimization, workforce engagement, and

continuous improvement within a complex manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a

candidate who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced setting and is eager to tackle the challenges of

increasing plant capacity, enhancing production efficiency, and improving team retention.

The Plant Manager will focus on developing operational strategies to increase efficiency and

automation while also working closely with cross-cultural teams, particularly in navigating the

nuances of collaborating with both American and Japanese stakeholders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

? Lead a diverse team, fostering a culture aligned with company values, continuous

improvement, and operational excellence.

? Drive operational improvements to increase production capacity from current levels to

meet or exceed 80%.

? Implement capital projects, including automation and equipment upgrades, to enhance

plant performance.

? Develop and execute strategies to reduce workforce turnover through leadership,

engagement, and retention programs.

? Manage overall plant operations, including safety, quality, production, and maintenance,

ensuring compliance with company standards.

? Collaborate with Japanese counterparts to build strong, trust-based relationships and

align on strategic goals.

? Maintain financial accountability for the plant, including budgeting, cost control, and

presenting ROI-driven decisions for investment in plant upgrades.

? Use lean manufacturing and other continuous improvement methodologies to optimize

plant operations and performance.

? Lead cross-functional teams in identifying opportunities for operational improvements

and driving key initiatives to enhance plant efficiency.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE:

The ideal candidate is a seasoned operations leader with a strong background in manufacturing

and a proven track record of improving plant performance. They must be a strategic thinker who

is equally comfortable on the plant floor, leading from the front.

Key attributes include:

? Experience leading manufacturing operations with a hands-on management style.

? Strong technical proficiency, particularly in hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical

systems, and a track record of overseeing automation projects.

? Proven success in driving plant performance improvements, including capacity

expansion, cost efficiency, and workforce engagement.

? Familiarity with working in culturally diverse environments and experience collaborating

with Japanese stakeholders is a strong plus.

? Financial acumen, with a demonstrated ability to manage budgets and drive ROI on

capital investments.

? Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and

collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

? Ability to lead in challenging environments, such as a plant with wet conditions, dust,

and dirt.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

? Minimum of 10 years of experience in industrial operations or engineering.

? At least 5 years of experience leading manufacturing teams/Plant.

? Proven success in improving plant performance through strategic leadership and

hands-on involvement.

? Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.

? Experience working in culturally diverse environments, particularly with Japanese

stakeholders, is a plus.