Athena Executive Search

Operations Manager, Global Packaging Manufacturer

Pine Bluff, Arkansas | Relocation Assistance Available

Join a Market Leader in the Global Packaging Industry

Athena Executive Search & Selection is delighted to be recruiting an experienced Operations Manager for a key manufacturing facility in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

This is a senior leadership opportunity within a highly respected international business, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service. Reporting directly to VP level, you will play a pivotal role in leading operational performance, developing high-performing teams, and driving continuous improvement across the site.

The Opportunity

As Operations Manager, you will have full operational responsibility for this strategically important manufacturing facility, ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, productivity, and customer satisfaction.

You will lead and develop a skilled workforce while delivering operational excellence through strong leadership, financial management, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for all manufacturing operations at the site.
• Create and maintain a safe, clean, and efficient working environment.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, quality, production, and shipping standards.
• Lead production operations to achieve operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
• Develop, manage, and deliver the site's operational budget.
• Drive cost control initiatives and deliver ongoing cost reduction programmes.
• Monitor and report monthly operational KPIs, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Optimise manufacturing processes to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Lead, coach, and develop operational teams, supporting succession planning and employee development.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and improve operational performance.

What We're Looking For

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Technical Discipline, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a leadership or management role.
• Experience within packaging, converting, paper, plastics, chemicals or another relevant manufacturing environment would be advantageous.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, safety regulations, and quality management systems.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong commercial awareness with experience managing operational budgets and costs.
• Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience using ERP systems and production planning software.
• Six Sigma, ISO 9001, or other operational excellence certifications are advantageous.

Personal Attributes

• Inspirational leader with excellent coaching and mentoring skills.
• Results-driven with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong business acumen and commercial awareness.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering operational excellence.
• High levels of integrity and accountability.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and execution skills.
• Able to influence and build relationships across all levels of the organisation.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Relocation assistance available, if required.
• The opportunity to join a globally recognised market leader.
• A senior leadership role with genuine scope to make a significant impact and further develop your career.

Apply

If you are an experienced manufacturing leader looking to take the next step in your career with a world-class packaging manufacturer, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Click Apply Now to find out more or to submit your application in confidence.

Athena Executive Search & Selection has been exclusively retained to recruit this position on behalf of our client. All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence.