Manufacturing Manager, Midwest Region

Description & Requirements

WestRock (NYSE : WRK) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose : Innovate Boldly.

Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to more fiber-based packaging forward.

Opportunity summary : As Manufacturing Manager for our Midwest Region, you will be responsible for ensuring timely production of quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations while empowering plant employees to ensure employee satisfaction.

In this role, you will foster continuous improvements within safety, quality, cost, and productivity across multiple assigned plants.

We are looking for someone who will teach, coach, and lead plant employees based on WestRock standards in order to achieve optimum operational efficiency.

How you will impact WestRock

• Identify long-term capital needs and structure and ensure fully deployed capital is operating at optimal performance and achieving ROI
• Conduct safety walkthroughs to identify behaviors and conditions in specific areas with high potential for injury or risk
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to analyze root causes and resolve problems at underperforming plants to ensure all plants are running at full operational efficiency
• Manage execution and quality delivery of change across assigned plants through leadership alignment, delivery of training and communications to help achieve desired change outcomes
• Identify regional industry specific barriers to production performance, and provide guidance and support to local teams
• Maintain strong relationships with Business Unit General Managers (BUGMs) and Assistant Vice Presidents (AVPs) to influence operational excellence, strategize region growth ideas, and provide recommendations to engage and influence people
• Coach plant leadership team to utilize Daily Management System (DMS) to manage performance scorecard SMART goals and track KPIs (downtime, make-readies, run speed, waste, and safety compliance)
• Ensures staffing is appropriate to meet workload requirements, productivity standards, and provide recommendations for alternative staffing models

What you need to succeed :

• High School diploma or G.E.D.required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 5 to 10 years of experience in corrugated manufacturing production industry; leadership and management experience
• Possess computer skills utilizing Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
• Ability to utilize a planner software (i.e. Kiwi, JDE)
• Demonstrated technical and mechanical acumen
• Adept at problem-solving and identifying root causes to implement preventative methods
• Be a strategic thinker with the confidence to make decisions which impact safety, cost, operations, and productivity
• Strong organizational skills and ability to handle multiple competing priorities
• Strong communication skills with ability to adjust communication style and interact across all levels of the organization
• Demonstrated ability to be a true energizer of change with growth mindset
• Possess proficient oral and written communication skills
• Proven experience managing and developing high performing teams
• 90% travel

What we offer :

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies, and potential.
• Benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k with match, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, employee referral bonus, and much more!
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

WestRock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.

WestRock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.