Plant Manager

and audit standards in a high-visibility, customer-facing environmentProvide operational oversight for R&D assets and pilot equipment located at the Sardis facilitySupport scale-up trials, development runs, and process optimization initiatives without compromising commercial production performanceFacilitate smooth and repeatable transitions from pilot-scale to full-scale manufacturingLead, coach, and develop supervisors, leads, and operators across multiple shiftsDesign and implement structured operator training programs with emphasis on safety, ERP usage, and technical competencyPartner with HR to recruit, retain, and promote local talentBuild and manage shift schedules balancing production requirements, maintenance needs, and R&D flexibilityUtilize ERP-driven labor planning to optimize resource allocation and reduce inefficienciesEnsure adequate cross-training to improve coverage, agility, and operational responsivenessRepresent Sardis operations during customer visits, audits, and product demonstrationsMaintain a high level of site professionalism as the company's flagship customer-facing facilityCollaborate closely with R&D, Commercial, Engineering, and Procurement teams to meet internal and external objectivesOwn plant-level budgets, KPIs, and operational metricsTrack and drive improvements in cost per unit, yield, labor utilization, and equipment uptimeLead capital project execution and continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency and scalabilityQualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Industrial Operations, or a related field.10years of plant operations or production leadership experience with multi-line, multi-shift oversight.Proven success leading customer-facing manufacturing operations.Experience supporting R&D activities, pilot-to-scale transitions, and product optimization initiatives.Demonstrated strength in people leadership and operator training development.Expertise in ERP-driven operations management, Lean manufacturing principles, and continuous improvement.Ability to balance production discipline with R&D flexibility.High proficiency with ERP systems (NetSuite preferred), Microsoft Office Suite, and data-driven reporting tools.Strong communicator with the ability to influence across technical, commercial, and R&D teams.Preferred QualificationsAt least one year of hands-on experience using NetSuite in a manufacturing environment.Proven people leadership experience managing teams of 10-25 employees.Background in spray drying and packaging operations.Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.Demonstrated success building high-performing, customer-facing production teams.Experience managing operations in a headquarters or flagship facility environment.Familiarity with international shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, and phytosanitary requirements.Benefits401(k) contribution matchPaid Time Off (PTO)Medical, Dental, and Vision coverageShort-term and long-term disability insurance