Plant Manager (Confidential Search)

Preston Lang; Guelph; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leader in specialty packaging is seeking a Plant Manager in Guelph, ON. This role involves full operational responsibility for the manufacturing facility, overseeing a team of 80 across Litho, Folding, and Die Cutting departments. The ideal candidate will have 7–10 years of experience in manufacturing management, particularly in printing or packaging. Responsibilities include driving lean manufacturing practices, managing production schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Join a purpose-driven company committed to sustainability and innovation.

Benefits

Opportunity for personal and professional growth

Collaborative leadership team

Commitment to sustainability

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of experience in manufacturing management preferred in printing or packaging industries.
• Proven ability to manage multi-shift operations and large workforce.
• Knowledge of lithographic printing, folding carton production, and die-cutting processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations across Litho, Folding, and Die Cutting functions.
• Supervise and develop a diverse team of approximately 80 employees.
• Drive lean manufacturing practices and process optimization initiatives.

Skills

Leadership experience

Lean manufacturing principles

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Plant Manager - JO16708256

Our Client is a recognized leader in the specialty packaging industry, delivering innovative, high-performance solutions for clients across the healthcare, consumer, and media markets. With a legacy of excellence and a strong focus on sustainability, the company is committed to reducing complexity for its customers while elevating brand visibility through differentiated packaging formats. They embrace next‑generation technology, optimized production processes, and environmentally responsible materials to create long‑term value for clients, employees, communities, and the planet. More than just packaging — their vision is impact‑driven, forward‑looking, and deeply human‑centered.

Location

Guelph, ON.

Position Description

The Plant Manager will have full operational responsibility for the manufacturing facility located in Markham, Ontario. With oversight of approximately 80 team members across two shifts, the Plant Manager will lead the Litho, Folding, and Die Cutting departments to ensure production goals are met with the highest standards of safety, quality, efficiency, and employee engagement. This role requires a hands‑on leader with a deep understanding of print manufacturing and a commitment to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations across Litho, Folding, and Die Cutting functions, ensuring optimal workflow, output, and quality control.
• Supervise, coach, and develop a diverse team of approximately 80 employees across multiple shifts, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to productivity, waste reduction, safety, on‑time delivery, and customer satisfaction.
• Collaborate with internal departments – Sales, Customer Service, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain teams to ensure seamless operational execution and alignment with corporate goals.
• Drive lean manufacturing practices, root cause analysis, and process optimization initiatives to increase operational efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Ensure strict compliance with health and safety regulations, environmental standards, and internal operating procedures.
• Manage production scheduling and capacity planning to support customer demand and inventory targets.
• Provide hands‑on leadership and act as a change agent, promoting innovation, employee empowerment, and open communication.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing management, with a strong preference for backgrounds in printing or packaging industries.
• Proven leadership experience managing multi‑shift operations and a sizeable workforce. Strong understanding of lithographic printing, folding carton production, and die‑cutting technologies and processes.
• Solid knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional interpersonal, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Adept at using production management systems, scheduling tools, and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cultural transformation and build high‑performing teams.

Why Join This Company

• Opportunity to work with a forward‑thinking company that invests in people, innovation, and sustainability.
• Join a collaborative leadership team where your input directly impacts the company’s growth and operational success.
• Contribute to a purpose‑driven organization that values its employees, supports local communities, and designs solutions that are better for the environment

How to Apply

Please e‑mail your resume to [e-mail] quoting JO16708256 in the subject line.

We thank you in advance for your application however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.