Regional Plant Operations Leader - Safety & Lean Excellence

IPG; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

IPG is seeking a Regional Operations Manager to lead three manufacturing sites in the Protective Packaging division, driving safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the region.

You will partner with Plant Managers and business leaders to implement lean systems, optimize costs, manage P&L, and build a high‑performing, accountable team across Chicago, IL and nearby sites. This high‑impact role demands strategic thinking and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience driving operational excellence and performance systems (Lean, TPS, or similar).
• Strong background in safety leadership and process discipline.
• Experience leading multi-site operations and geographically dispersed teams.
• Proven ability to influence leaders, develop teams, and drive accountability.
• Strong financial acumen, including P&L management.
• Experience in unionized environments is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute regional strategy to achieve operational, financial, and safety objectives.
• Drive productivity improvements, cost optimization, and waste reduction initiatives across all sites.
• Champion world-class safety standards and ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements.
• Partner with Plant Managers and business leaders to resolve operational challenges and optimize performance.
• Oversee staffing strategy, organizational effectiveness, and succession planning for the region.
• Lead the implementation of standardized systems, including lean manufacturing and performance systems (e.g., IPG Performance System).
• Monitor financial performance, including P&L, and ensure alignment with budget targets.
• Analyze and drive improvements using key operational metrics and KPIs.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture across all sites.
• Ensure consistent execution of company policies, procedures, and operational standards

Skills

Operations leadership

Lean manufacturing

Safety leadership

P&L management

Multi-site leadership

Strategic thinking

Team development

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Industrial Technology

Job description

IPG is seeking a Regional Operations Manager to lead three manufacturing sites in the Protective Packaging division, driving safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the region.

You will partner with Plant Managers and business leaders to implement lean systems, optimize costs, manage P&L, and build a high‑performing, accountable team across Chicago, IL and nearby sites. This high‑impact role demands strategic thinking and strong leadership.