Plant Director — Lead 500+ in Chocolate Manufacturing

Russell Stover Chocolates, LLC; Abilene (KS); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Russell Stover Chocolates is seeking a Plant Director for our Abilene, KS facility to lead all onsite operations, drive safety, quality, and efficiency, and ensure alignment with company goals. You will oversee ~500 staff, partner with engineering and HR, and direct capital investments to meet cost and capacity targets.

The role requires a strong track record in manufacturing leadership, GMP practices, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced chocolate production environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in industrial, mechanical, food science, or business administration or related field.
• Minimum 10+ years of proven experience in a leadership role within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in continuous improvement using lean tools (5S, TPM, Six Sigma, or similar).
• Experience with SAP in a manufacturing environment.
• Training in engineering standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate production operations, health and safety, maintenance engineering, quality, and continuous improvement for the plant.
• Manage daily plant operations to achieve production and business goals.
• Hire, train, motivate, and develop staff to create a high-performing workforce.

Skills

Leadership

Lean methods

Continuous improvement

Engineering standards

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree

Tools

SAP

Job description

Russell Stover Chocolates is seeking a Plant Director for our Abilene, KS facility to lead all onsite operations, drive safety, quality, and efficiency, and ensure alignment with company goals. You will oversee ~500 staff, partner with engineering and HR, and direct capital investments to meet cost and capacity targets.

The role requires a strong track record in manufacturing leadership, GMP practices, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced chocolate production environment.