Manufacturing Operations Leader - Lean & Safety

Sappi; Westbrook (ME); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Sappi in Westbrook, Maine seeks an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead safe, efficient production of release paper products. You will oversee Coating, Converting, Finishing, Material Handling, and Shipping, drive continuous improvement, and manage costs while sustaining strong safety and quality standards.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Engineering, 10+ years in manufacturing, and proven leadership in a unionized setting, with a track record in Lean initiatives and strategic

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering required.
• Minimum of 10 years of manufacturing experience.
• Leadership role in a unionized setting.
• Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement track record.
• Strong financial management, budgeting and cost control.
• Experience with labor relations and workforce development.
• Excellent communication, leadership and strategic thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead safety culture and ensure compliance with safety programs.
• Engage employees and union leadership through effective communication.
• Develop and execute production plans to meet customer requirements and optimize efficiency.
• Coordinate manufacturing activities with cross-functional teams.
• Coach and develop salaried and hourly employees; manage performance and training.
• Support labor relations including grievance resolution and negotiations.
• Manage budgets, monitor expenditures, analyze variances, and identify cost improvements.
• Partner with site leadership on long-term operational strategies and capital plans.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Lean Six Sigma principles.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Manufacturing

Lean Six Sigma

Financial acumen

Labor relations

Employee development

Communication

Strategic planning

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Job description

Sappi in Westbrook, Maine seeks an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead safe, efficient production of release paper products. You will oversee Coating, Converting, Finishing, Material Handling, and Shipping, drive continuous improvement, and manage costs while sustaining strong safety and quality standards.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Engineering, 10+ years in manufacturing, and proven leadership in a unionized setting, with a track record in Lean initiatives and strategic