Plant Transformation Leader – Global Operations

Suterra; Bend (OR); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Suterra in Bend, OR is seeking a Plant Transformation Leader to drive global operational excellence. This hands-on role involves leading large-scale transformation initiatives within our manufacturing network while partnering directly with the executive team.

The ideal candidate has 5–10+ years of operational leadership experience, expertise in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and the ability to implement strategies for continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years of experience in operations or manufacturing roles.
• Experience leading large-scale change initiatives in a global environment.
• Ability to translate executive objectives into actionable plans.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the global improvement agenda in alignment with strategic objectives.
• Lead complex, cross-functional improvement projects across multiple sites.
• Facilitate standardization and best-practice sharing to ensure world-class operations.

Skills

Operational leadership

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Data analytics

Cross-functional project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Operations Management

Job description

Bend, OR | Full-time | Onsite

Be the Force Driving Global Operational Excellence

Are you ready to lead large‑scale transformation across a global manufacturing network? At Suterra, we’re shaping the future of sustainable agriculture through science, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of operational excellence. As the Plant Transformation Leader you’ll partner directly with our Global Executive Team to define and execute a bold agenda for capital investment, new process development and organizational muscle‑building across Suterra’s multi‑platform, international footprint. This is not a theoretical role – it’s hands‑on leadership. You’ll work shoulder‑to‑shoulder with the Suterra Executive Team, plant teams, functional leaders, and engineers to streamline systems, modernize manufacturing, and embed a culture of continuous improvement that drives measurable, lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

• Define and drive the global improvement agenda in partnership with the Global Executive Team, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives across Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality.
• Partner with the Executive Team, Engineering and Finance functions to scope out and deliver capital projects that support new product launches, operational improvements, and enhanced plant capabilities while providing tangible returns on investment.
• Lead complex, cross‑functional improvement projects across multiple sites, from manufacturing redesign and automation to product flow optimization and training system transformation.
• Champion operational excellence through the implementation of Lean, Six Sigma, and data‑driven methodologies that enhance productivity, quality, and scalability.
• Facilitate standardization and best‑practice sharing across regions to ensure consistent, world‑class operations.
• Lead and recruit operations personnel to strengthen performance and expand plant capabilities. Empower teams to identify bottlenecks, reduce waste, develop talent and implement improvements.
• Leverage data and analytics to prioritize opportunities, measure success, and communicate progress to the shareholder.

Qualifications

• Proven operational leadership experience, ideally including plant management or direct responsibility for manufacturing operations.
• 5–10+ years of experience in operations, manufacturing, or industrial process improvement roles with increasing scope and responsibility.
• Demonstrated success leading large‑scale change initiatives, from concept to execution, in multi‑site or global environments.
• Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or other structured improvement methodologies; certification strongly preferred.
• Strategic and analytical mindset with the ability to translate executive objectives into actionable plans.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and influencing skills, able to align diverse stakeholders and inspire accountability at all levels.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.

Suterra is a division of The Wonderful Company. We are an Equality Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities for advancement. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce that embodies a deep culture of acceptance, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, region, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. EEO is the law - click here for more information.