Plant Manager

Griffith Foods is the caring, creative product development partner helping food companies meet the evolving needs of consumers while sustaining the planet. As a family business founded in 1919 and headquartered in Alsip, Illinois USA, Griffith Foods is known for true, collaborative innovation guided by their Purpose of “We Blend Care and Creativity to Nourish the World”. The company’s product capabilities range from seasonings and marinades to coating systems and sauces that are better for people and better for the planet. For more information, visit www.griffithfoods.com.The Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing the entire manufacturing facility and leading all site functions including Production, Planning, Quality, Safety, Maintenance, HR, and Lean initiatives. The role ensures smooth factory operations aligned with business goals across cost, quality, service, safety, and people development. The Plant Manager translates strategy into operational excellence and cultivates a high-performance, inclusive culture on site.

Please indicate whether a primary focus of the job is:

• Operational Leadership – Full ownership of end-to-end factory operations to ensure productivity, quality, safety, cost-efficiency, and timely delivery.
• People Leadership – Building and leading a high-performing, engaged workforce through effective talent management, coaching, and culture-building.
  

Key Roles & Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end factory operations aligned with business goals and customer expectations.
• Provide strategic and operational leadership to Production, Planning, Quality, Safety, Maintenance, HR, and Lean teams.
• Champion HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) and ensure food safety and regulatory compliance.
• Build and lead an engaged, high-performing workforce through talent development, coaching, and inclusive leadership.
• Oversee demand and material planning and coordinate with Sales, MEA region, and external stakeholders.
• Manage factory budgets and lead GPI (Griffith Continuous Improvement) initiatives for efficiency and profitability.
  

Functional Knowledge

In-depth knowledge of food manufacturing processes, regulatory frameworks (FSSAI), Lean Manufacturing, and ERP systems. Proven ability to implement technical solutions to optimize productivity and compliance.

Business Expertise

Understanding of the food processing industry, its trends, regulatory demands, and customer requirements, with the ability to align operations with overall business strategy.

Leadership

Experience leading large teams across functions, implementing cross-functional improvements, and mentoring teams to deliver against KPIs.

Problem Solving

Applies structured problem-solving techniques to address technical and operational challenges. Able to drive root cause analysis and continuous improvement.

Impact

The role has a direct impact on manufacturing efficiency, product quality, compliance, and overall factory performance. Responsible for executing strategy and delivering business outcomes at the site.

Interpersonal Skills

Strong collaboration, communication, and influencing skills to work with internal teams, external partners, and regulatory authorities. Acts as a role model for inclusive and values-driven leadership.

Minimum Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Food, or Dairy preferred)

Minimum Experience

15+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 5 years in a plant leadership role.Please review the above details and confirm your interest by replying to this email with your updated resume.