Manufacturing Manager

Emery Oleochemicals; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in sustainable chemicals, Emery Oleochemicals is seeking a Manufacturing Manager to lead operations across three plants, overseeing a workforce of 300. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in chemical manufacturing, strong leadership, and a commitment to operational excellence and sustainability. This is a key role that requires strategic planning and collaboration with various departments to enhance product quality and efficiency.

Benefits

Global Impact

Growth & Development

Commitment to Sustainability

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in chemical or related process-based manufacturing.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience.
• Deep understanding of batch and continuous chemical processing.

Responsibilities

• Lead executive management across three manufacturing sites.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement and implement best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Process Excellence

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Communication

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering

Advanced degree (MBA or MS)

Tools

ERP systems (e.g., SAP)

Job description

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• Would you like to lead manufacturing operations across three plants and 300+ employees in a global, mission-driven organization?
• Are you motivated to join a company focused on sustainable innovation and contribute to cutting-edge, bio-based solutions in the growing greenchemistry space?
• This is a high-profile role with direct interaction with senior leadership within a multinational organization that values technical and operational excellence.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Emery Oleochemicals is a global leader in high-performance, natural-based chemicals and polymer additives, derived from renewable feedstocks such as palm oil and tallow. With a legacy dating back over 180 years, Emery operates at the forefront of the oleochemical industry, committed to sustainable innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the Regional Managing Director, the Manufacturing Manager will lead Emery’s North American manufacturing organization, overseeing three production sites with a total workforce of approximately 300. This strategic role ensures operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, product quality, and safety across all sites while driving continuous improvement and cost optimization. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in chemical or related manufacturing, strong leadership capabilities, and a passion for operational excellence and sustainable practices.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Provide executive-level leadership across three manufacturing sites, driving a culture of safety, quality, and performance.
• Lead and mentor Plant Managers, ensuring alignment with corporate strategy and fostering a high-performance team culture.
• Oversee manufacturing KPIs and reporting, including OEE, safety metrics, yields, waste, and cost.
• Champion continuous improvement programs (Lean, Six Sigma), implementing best practices across all plants.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, and safety (EH&S) regulations and company standards, including OSHA, EPA, and internal sustainability goals.
• Lead capital investment planning and execution, including budgeting, justification, and implementation.
• Collaborate closely with Supply Chain, R&D, Engineering, and Commercial teams to ensure delivery of high-quality, innovative oleochemical products.
• Promote sustainability and stewardship across manufacturing processes in alignment with Emery’s corporate mission.
• Support strategic initiatives such as digital manufacturing, advanced analytics, and automation to enhance operational capability.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field required; advanced degree (MBA or MS) preferred.
• 20 years of total experience including 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in chemical or related process-based manufacturing, including multi-site or large-plant operations.
• Demonstrated success in building and leading high-performing, cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of batch and continuous chemical processing, utilities, safety systems, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and change management skills.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and manufacturing performance metrics (e.g., SAP, MES platforms).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic-thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work across diverse teams and cultures.

KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Strategic Leadership- Ability to set a clear vision, align multi-site operations with business objectives, and lead through influence and accountability.
• Operational Discipline- Strong execution focus with attention to detail, commitment to process excellence, and data-driven decision making.
• Collaborative Communication- Skilled at cross-functional communication with internal teams (e.g., engineering, EH&S, supply chain) and external stakeholders (e.g., regulators, vendors).
• Resilience & Adaptability- Can lead through change, manage ambiguity, and remain calm under pressure while navigating challenges across complex manufacturing environments.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset- Passionate about innovation, sustainability, and driving operational improvements through Lean, Six Sigma, and new technologies.
• High-energy- Embraces challenges and continuous improvement.

THE PAYOFF

• Global Impact: Be part of a global company delivering renewable, sustainable solutions in key industries including plastics, agriculture, and personal care.
• Executive Leadership: Lead a large-scale manufacturing organization with strategic influence across North American operations.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Work for a company committed to natural-based chemistry and reducing environmental impact.
• Growth & Development: Join a collaborative, growth-oriented culture that values continuous learning and leadership development.

OUR COMMITMENT TO CANDIDATES

Gilman Partners is committed to strengthening leadership teams and elevating talent in our communities—and that means all qualified applicants will receive consideration. You do not have to meet every qualification in this job description to apply. If you’re drawn to the position and believe your experience makes you a good fit, we encourage you to reach out.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Manufacturing, Project Management, and Management

Industries

• Chemical Manufacturing and Manufacturing

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