Production - Operations Manager

WestRock - City of Industry, CA

Full-time - Senior

City of Industry, CA

Paper Manufacturing

About the position

The Operations Manager at WestRock is responsible for organizing the plant to maximize efficiency while ensuring safe working conditions and maintaining quality and production standards. This role involves strategic planning, productivity enhancement, and the implementation of continuous improvement techniques to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.

Responsibilities

• Participates as a member of the Plant's Management team in formulating business strategies, plans, and budgets.
• Responsible for increasing productivity by reducing downtime and improving efficiency.
• Develops and executes operational plans including performance targets and budgets.
• Leads the development and execution of processes to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets.
• Sets performance standards for personnel and promotes continuous improvement techniques.
• Develops programs aimed at improving product and service quality to maximize customer satisfaction.
• Coaches, empowers, motivates, and manages a team of managers and individual contributors.
• Initiates training programs for production employees focusing on health and safety.
• Stimulates and educates plant employees to create good working conditions and communication.
• Prepares and implements machinery investments and layouts to increase capacity and decrease costs.
• Manages routine processing activities in compliance with group standards.
• Ensures direct reports have the necessary knowledge and skills, and coordinates their work.
• Defines KPIs for direct reports and ensures timely follow-up with monthly reports to the General Manager.
• Conducts periodic reviews to identify effective processes and define solutions.
• Carries out Performance Development Reviews (PDR) with production management employees annually.
• Reviews production processes regularly with the management team to ensure effectiveness.
• Keeps up to date on new developments and fosters learning among the team.
• Advises General Managers of any concerns regarding department performance.
• Oversees cross-training among the team and ensures compliance with safety standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in business, industrial packaging, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in TQM, ISO, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or Process Improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly advanced skills.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Ability to work with various departments to resolve challenges.
• Strong analytical thinking and organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in the manufacturing industry.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations and practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $127K - $161K per year.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.