Plant Manager

Position Overview:

We are looking for a transformational leader to spearhead operational changes and lead our plant through a new era of efficiency, innovation, and workforce engagement. The Plant Manager will be responsible for overseeing all daily manufacturing operations while championing process improvements, implementing best-in-class manufacturing practices, and fostering a high-performance team culture.

This role requires a strategic and hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces challenges, and can successfully implement change management initiatives to elevate our plant’s productivity, safety, and long-term sustainability.

Responsibilities:

The Plant Manager will oversee all operational aspects of the facility, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality while driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include:

• Lead all plant operations, ensuring accountability, efficiency, and high performance.

• Implement and oversee a comprehensive health, safety, and environmental management program.

• Ensure compliance with accredited quality management systems, consistently meeting customer expectations for product quality and supply.

• Define and drive the plant’s vision and strategy, focusing on continuous improvement to support business growth.

• Develop and execute an annual business plan aligned with company objectives, including achievement of financial and operational goals.

• Establish and maintain systems to monitor and minimise costs while improving quality and reducing variability in manufacturing.

• Champion change management initiatives, effectively leading individuals and teams through transitions.

• Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability across all functional levels, addressing performance gaps proactively.

• Build and develop a high-performing team through training, coaching, and mentorship programs.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, productivity, delivery and cost-effectiveness.

• Optimise manufacturing processes to reduce costs, improve product quality, and enhance overall efficiency.

• Oversee facility protection, including fire protection, emergency preparedness, loss control, and asset management.

• Utilise lean principles and hands-on leadership to identify, prioritize, and execute process improvement projects.

• Collaborate with Commercial and R&D teams on new product development, introduction, and process enhancements.

• Foster a culture of accountability with open and honest feedback at all organisational levels.

• Ensure talent acquisition, training, and development programs are in place, regularly coaching direct reports.

Requirements:

Education:

• A degree in engineering or a related technical field is preferred.

Experience & Skills:

• 10+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior plant leadership role.

• Proven track record in large-scale transformations and cultural change initiatives.

• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to develop and motivate high-performing teams.

• Strong financial acumen with experience managing P&L, budgets, cost control, and capital expenditures.

• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence methodologies.

• Experience in process engineering, automation, and continuous improvement.

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in a complex, fast-paced environment.

• A background in technical textiles, advanced materials and automotive / aerospace is preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Inspirational leadership with a commitment to integrity, accountability, and high ethical standards.

• Results-driven management style with a strong ability to implement change and drive performance.

• Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.

• Experience in developing leaders and fostering a culture focused on safety, quality, and operational excellence.

If you are interested in being part of a world class manufacturing facility here at Alkegen then we would love to hear from you.