JOB SUMMARY

Are you ready to take the lead in shaping the future of a dynamic manufacturing facility nestled in the heart of Union, MO? We are seeking a visionary Plant Operations Manager to spearhead our production of soft play equipment, children's furniture, and early childhood educational products. This pivotal role involves overseeing the entire manufacturing process, leading a dedicated team, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to ensure optimal efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in manufacturing operations management, with at least 2 years in a managerial role.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Must be able to effectively use Microsoft Office including Excel/Word/PowerPoint, along with current corporate business software - ERP, WMS, ETC

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production planning, and quality management systems.
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse workforce.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, senior management, and external stakeholders.
• Familiarity with relevant regulations and safety standards in the manufacturing industry.
• Proficiency in using manufacturing software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and productivity tools.
• Ability to maintain consistent attendance, arriving on time and prepared for all shifts, meetings, and appointments.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES, EXPECTATIONS, AND BEHAVIORS include, but are not limited to, the following:

Facility Management:

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to ensure the smooth operation of the manufacturing facility.
• Oversee all aspects of facility management, including maintenance, safety, security, and compliance with applicable regulations.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to optimize facility performance and resource utilization.

Production Planning and Management:

• Develop production plans and schedules to meet customer demands while optimizing resource allocation and ensuring timely delivery.
• Monitor production processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, design, and engineering, to ensure product quality, cost-effectiveness, and on-time delivery.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead a team of supervisors, technicians, and production staff, fostering a positive work environment and promoting a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Set performance goals, provide regular feedback, conduct performance evaluations, and identify training and development opportunities for team members.
• Implement workforce planning strategies to ensure adequate staffing levels and skills for current and future business needs.

Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement:

• Establish and enforce quality control standards to meet or exceed customer expectations and industry regulations.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies, to enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize processes.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to monitor product quality, identify opportunities for improvement, and ensure adherence to quality standards.

Supply Chain and Vendor Management:

• Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure timely and cost-effective availability of raw materials, components, and equipment.
• Establish and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers, negotiate contracts, and monitor performance to ensure the highest quality and value.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Variations of conditions may occur under certain circumstances.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Regular use of PC, laptop, copier, fax, and other general office equipment
• Ability to access all areas of the facility to perform essentials functions of the position
• Walking and standing for extended periods
• Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds
• Operating machinery and equipment
• Bending, stooping, and reaching
• Visual inspection of equipment and products

Work Environment:

The Plant Manager primarily works in an office environment within the manufacturing facility but may also spend time on the production floor overseeing operations. The role may involve occasional travel for meetings, training, or supplier visits. The noise level for this environment is low to moderate.

In office attendance is an essential function of this position.

WHO WE ARE

At Children's Factory, we create inspired spaces for imagination and learning. For over 40 years, we've been a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality products for child development centers, preschools, and elementary education.

Simply put- We provide GROWN UPS with the products and resources KIDS need to inspire imagination, build confidence, and develop lifelong learning skills. We do more than just make great products. We make a positive impact on the lives of the children and educators who use them.

Each and every member of our team plays a pivotal role in helping children all over the world thrive and discover their full potential. We are looking for problem solvers, difference makers, and challenge takers. People who share our passion for education, and who want to make a difference in the world.

Children's Factory is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer

Children's Factory is an Excelligence Company. Excelligence is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees, employment applicants and other covered persons without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, religion or creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.