Plant Manager
Direct Hire
Monterrey, Mexico
Reports to President / CEO North America
The Project Manager / Plant Manager will lead the successful startup and subsequent operation of the companies new production facility in Mexico. This role requires a hands-on leader with prior experience in plant startups, strong engineering expertise, and the ability to oversee production to meet the companies high standards for quality, quantity, and delivery.
- Lead all aspects of the new plant’s startup, including commissioning of equipment, staffing, process validation, and initial production ramp-up to meet launch schedules and quality targets.
- Oversee manufacturing processes including paper processing, filter element production, CNC machining, and bulk packaging to ensure achievement of production quotas, schedules, inventory, and timely shipments.
- Develop, implement, and sustain world-class safety, quality, cost, and delivery standards from plant launch through ongoing operations.
- Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams to ensure that plant infrastructure, equipment, and systems meet design and operational requirements.
- Manage resources—personnel, materials, equipment, and budget—to meet customer demand and support efficient plant operation.
- Drive lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to embed a culture of operational excellence from startup onwards.
- Lead problem-solving and root cause analysis efforts using structured methods such as PDCA, fostering team skills development and coaching on the shop floor.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and company policies, promoting a zero-harm workplace.
- Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with corporate departments, suppliers, and local stakeholders to ensure alignment and support.
- Responsible for department budgets and financial performance related to the plant startup and manufacturing operations.
Requirements
Technical BS degree in engineering, science, math, or another related field required.MBA is a plus.Minimum 10 years’ experience in manufacturing management, including line management and operational leadership.Prior direct experience managing a plant startup is strongly preferred.Engineering background with a technical degree; demonstrated ability to integrate engineering principles into manufacturing operations.Automotive experience is a plus.Change agent with track record of leading and achieving process improvements throughout the organization.Excellent data analysis and advanced problem-solving techniques required.History of creating a “lean culture” in an organization through shop floor action teams.Strategic thinker with experience managing current priorities & targets while simultaneously developing and progressing towards a multi-year business plan based on the company’s mission, values, and goals.Strong ability to coach associates at all levels of the organization.Proficient with data analysis using Excel spreadsheets.Proficiency using other statistical software analysis tools is a plus.Action oriented with strong leadership capabilities in dynamic manufacturing situations. Must be able to process information quickly and be able to make independent decisions based on incomplete and relevant data.Strong organizational skills, a strong will, ability to multi-task, and able to strategically prioritize based on production needs.Proven ability to lead teams across the organization and provide clear direction to all shop floor associates.Strong oral and written communication skills.Experience using MRP systems. SAP experience is a plus.Lean manufacturing training required, including in depth knowledge of key lean principles : Value stream mapping, Kaizen, Standard work, Visual management, 6S, SMED