Plant Manager

Summary

The Plant Manager at our Westfield, Massachusetts plant is the senior operational leader responsible for directing the daily operations of a high-speed, high-volume manufacturing plant that produces exterior siding for residential and commercial customers.

The Plant Manager not only ensures safe and efficient production, but also drives long-term improvements, influences cross-functional initiatives and aligns plant operations with broader organizational strategies. Individuals in this role exhibit exceptional leadership, advanced operational expertise, and high-level decision-making abilities. They are expected to think proactively, mentor future leaders, consistently deliver world-class operational outcomes and continue to build an outstanding culture.

What You’ll Do:

Operational Leadership & Strategic Management

· Actively lead and support safety effort in pursuit of Zero Harm

· Oversee high-volume manufacturing operations, ensuring consistent performance across production area.

· Develop multi-year operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.

· Lead continuous improvement initiatives across quality, safety, production, and cost-efficiency.

· Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence frameworks throughout the plant.

Production & Efficiency Management

· Plan and manage production capacity, asset utilization, and throughput to meet or exceed organizational targets.

· Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs): OEE, scrap/rework, downtime, labor efficiency, and cost per unit.

· Implement advanced data-driven processes to optimize workflow, reduce waste, and maximize resource allocation.

Compliance, Safety & Quality

· Ensure strict adherence to all regulatory standards (OSHA, EPA, ISO, etc.).

· Champion a strong safety culture, owning all plant-level EHS performance.

· Oversee quality management systems and ensure consistency with certification and industry standards.

Organizational & Talent Leadership

· Lead, coach and mentor team to enhance operational capability and career growth.

· Continue to build an outstanding and engaged culture.

Financial & Budget Accountability

· Responsibility for profit and loss of the Westfield site.

· Partner with Plant Controller to develop, maintain, and forecast annual operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost-control plans.

· Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, reduce costs, and support strategic investment decisions.

· Ensure high-value ROI on equipment, technology upgrades, and process improvements.

Cross-functional Collaboration

· Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Leadership to drive business initiatives.

· Support new product introductions, plant expansions, and technology integrations.

Communication & Reporting

· Communicate plant performance, risks, and opportunities transparently.

· Build trust and alignment across all levels of the organization.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

What You’ll Bring:

· A Bachelor’s Degree required, with preference given to a technical or engineering discipline (must be from accredited institution)

· 10+ years of relevant management experience in a high-speed manufacturing environment

· Prior profit/loss responsibilities and a demonstrated ability to identify costs, and what levers to pull to get results to the bottom line.

· Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies required, black belt preferred 

· Demonstrated advanced skills with the standard features of various personal computer word processing and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Word and Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet, and other proprietary software).

· Strong leadership, communication, people development- ability to coach and engagement skills

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $148,900 to $193.600. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and bonus. The successful candidate will work in an engaged and collaborative work environment, make an impact on the organization and enjoy career growth at James Hardie.

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We have worked hard to build and generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

· Comprehensive health insurance; medical, dental, prescription and vision plans

· Life Insurance

· Short term and long term disability insurance

· 401(k) plan with 100% company match up to 6%

· Employee Stock Purchase Program

· Paid holidays and vacation

Apply now and come “home” to Hardie!

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