Plant Manager — Food & Beverage Operations Leader

Princeton Search Partners; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton Search Partners is partnering with a leading CPG manufacturer in Columbia, SC to hire a Plant Manager. The successful candidate will lead all manufacturing operations, strengthen plant performance, and build an engaged, accountable team.

This role requires presence on the plant floor, managing daily operations, and delivering results through coaching, delegation, and follow-through. A track record of turning around plant performance and a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in high-speed manufacturing.
• Food or beverage manufacturing experience is not specified in the ad.

Responsibilities

• Lead production, warehouse operations, and plant teams.
• Drive safety, quality, sanitation, and SQF compliance.
• Improve yield, labor efficiency, costs, and customer service.
• Set clear expectations, communicate priorities, and recognize achievements.
• Identify root causes and implement lasting operational improvements.

Skills

10+ years experience

Leadership experience

Turnaround track record

People development

Delegation and coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Princeton Search Partners is partnering with a leading CPG manufacturer in Columbia, SC to hire a Plant Manager. The successful candidate will lead all manufacturing operations, strengthen plant performance, and build an engaged, accountable team.

This role requires presence on the plant floor, managing daily operations, and delivering results through coaching, delegation, and follow-through. A track record of turning around plant performance and a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.