Factory Production Manager

Keller Executive Search International; Sylacauga (AL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Keller Executive Search International is assisting a well-established manufacturing company in Sylacauga, Alabama to fill the role of Factory Production Manager. The successful candidate will lead all manufacturing operations, drive lean initiatives and build a high-performing, collaborative team in a hands-on leadership environment.

The role emphasizes continuous improvement, safety compliance, and data-driven decision making to optimise inventory, production planning and overall efficiency.

Qualifications

• Experience leading manufacturing operations.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Proven ability to build and coach high-performing teams.
• Hands-on leadership style and ability to drive results.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the manufacturing operation including warehousing, production, housekeeping, QA, finished goods and distribution.
• Champion lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma to eliminate waste and maximise efficiency.
• Build, develop and lead a high-performing team through recruitment, training, coaching and performance management.
• Implement and oversee new manufacturing initiatives including resource allocation and process optimisation.
• Control product flow from receipt to distribution ensuring optimal inventory levels with just-in-time principles.
• Maintain a safe and compliant work environment by enforcing health and safety policies and regulations.
• Conduct time studies and production method reviews to identify efficiency and cost-reduction opportunities.
• Prepare and present operational reports by collecting, analysing and summarising KPIs and production data.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Six Sigma

Team leadership

Continuous improvement

Job description

Overview

Our client is a well-established, family-owned manufacturing company with 78 years of excellence in custom foam products. They are seeking an experienced Factory Production Manager to lead their Sylacauga, Alabama facility.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement, and building high-performing teams. Cultural fit is paramount—the successful candidate must demonstrate humility, hunger for results, and strong interpersonal intelligence.

Those who prefer corporate environments or are uncomfortable with hands-on, collaborative leadership may not find this role fulfilling.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the manufacturing operation, including warehousing, production, housekeeping, quality assurance, finished goods, and distribution.
• Champion lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies, driving continuous improvement initiatives to eliminate waste, optimise quality, and maximise efficiency.
• Build, develop, and lead a high-performing team through effective recruitment, selection, training, coaching, and performance management. Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
• Implement and oversee new manufacturing initiatives, including strategic resource allocation, process optimisation, and adherence to best manufacturing practices.
• Control product flow from receipt through storage to distribution, ensuring optimal inventory levels through just-in-time principles and strategic production planning.
• Maintain a safe and compliant work environment by enforcing health and safety policies, procedures, and legal requirements (federal, state, and local regulations).
• Conduct regular time studies and production method reviews to identify opportunities for improved efficiency and cost reduction.
• Prepare and present operational reports by collecting, analysing, and summarising key performance indicators and production data.