Plant Operations Manager (Paper Packaging)

HTI is assisting a global packaging company with their search for an experienced, dynamic Plant Operations Manager for their new start-up facility in Spartanburg, SC!This position is full-time and direct hire, with a salary range of approximately $130,000 - $175,000 / year (depending on education and experience), plus bonus. Relocation assistance is available. The company offers excellent benefits, opportunities for growth, and a positive, collaborative work culture.Requirements:Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Management, or a similar area of study; MBA is a plus8+ years of proven success in plant leadership/production management roles within the paper packaging industryMust have plant start-up experienceStrong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and other process-improvement systems; Six Sigma certification preferredExperience with ISO 9001; experience in an FDA-regulated industry is a plusExperience and proficiency in the use of ERP systems and Microsoft OfficeStrong leadership and employee development/coaching aptitude, with the ability to build trust and engage employees through authentic and empowering leadershipProfessional written and verbal communications skillsSuccess managing teams in a high-volume, semi-automated production environmentSound knowledge of financial and safety systems"Safety First" mindsetContinuous drive to learn and apply new knowledgeAbility to collaborate effectively across diverse teams, celebrate shared success, and support others through challenges to achieve collective resultsSummaryLead the start-up and operational management of the Spartanburg, SC facility, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production across manufacturing, logistics, maintenance, and quality functions. This role is accountable for developing and executing operational strategies that align with corporate objectives, health and safety standards, and both short- and long-term business goals. They ensure compliance with federal and state workplace regulations, drive continuous improvement to optimize results and reduce waste, manage budgets and performance metrics, and foster a culture of safety, accountability, and workforce development.Job Duties include:Champion a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with corporate standards, and all federal/OSHA/state regulationsLead daily operations across manufacturing, logistics, maintenance, and quality to meet production schedules, safety standards, and exceed customer expectationsDrive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve cost efficiency, quality, and service deliveryDevelop and implement innovative operational strategies aligned with short- and long-term business objectivesEnsure effective utilization of systems and resources to optimize material flow, equipment performance, and workforce capabilityOversee operational budgets, monitor expenses, and manage KPI's, including OEE, safety, on-time delivery, and customer satisfactionLead and develop cross-functional teams through coaching, performance management, and clear communicationEnsure accurate and timely reporting of operational performance, including maintenance, staffing, and business metricsMaintain compliance with ISO 9001, FDA, and other quality/industry regulations and requirementsPartner with Human Resources team on workforce planning, recruitment, and compliance with federal and state labor laws