Plant Manager

About the Job

Pacific International has been retained by a global, industry‑leading manufacturing organization undergoing significant operational transformation. We are seeking an accomplished Plant Manager to lead and elevate a multi‑discipline production site in Iowa. This executive leader will be responsible for the strategic direction, daily management, and continuous development. The Director will ensure that high‑quality products are delivered on time, safely, and efficiently meeting or exceeding customer expectations while driving a culture of operational excellence. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in a modern manufacturing environment, brings a data‑driven mindset, and excels at building strong teams and high‑performance operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Leads daily operations to ensure safe, high‑quality, and productive performance.
• Aligns and supports leaders across operational functions to maintain smooth execution.
• Manages staffing and budgets to meet organizational goals.
• Drives continuous improvement and lean‑focused operational excellence.
• Promotes a customer‑focused culture and key performance priorities.
• Builds a strong, accountable, and engaged team.
• Develops capabilities to support long‑term operational growth.
• Leads change and guides teams through transformation efforts.
• Collaborates across functions to strengthen teamwork and transparency.
• Enhances safety performance and fosters a strong EHS culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Demonstrated ability to develop strategy, align teams, and lead effective execution.
• Strong communication and leadership skills across all levels of an organization.
• Broad understanding of manufacturing and operational best practices.
• Experience with continuous improvement and problem‑solving methodologies.
• Financial and budget management capability.
• Ability to identify root causes and implement long‑term solutions.
• Fluent in English.

Preferred Experience

• 5+ years of experience leading leaders within complex manufacturing environments.
• Automotive manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Broad understanding of supply chain processes and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Strong knowledge of modern manufacturing and operational practices.
• Experience working within high‑compliance or quality‑focused environments.

About Pacific International Executive Search

Pacific International, a globally recognized retained executive search firm, is dedicated to empowering Fortune 500, FTSE 100, and high-growth enterprises in building exceptional C-suite, senior-level, and strategic leadership teams while championing diversity and inclusion. Our adaptability, agility, and forward-thinking ethos distinguish us in the ever-evolving business landscape.

Since 1997, we have been dedicated to building lasting client partnerships based on trust and reliability, and a proven track record of successful C-suite and mid- to senior-level leadership project delivery across many key industries globally.

Diversity Statement

At Pacific International, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to these values is unwavering and we proudly champion diversity on behalf of our clients in every Executive Search mandate we undertake. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. In pursuit of these objectives, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.

Questions? Reach out to [email protected]