Production Manager

Overview

Perfetti Van Melle - one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide - is seeking a Manufacturing Production Manager to join our Operations Team based in Erlanger, KY.

The Production Manager directs and coordinates all production activities, providing strong safety leadership for the manufacturing of high‑quality product at optimum cost to meet required sales needs. The role includes planning resources, communicating objectives, and leading the execution of the production plan for all lines. The Production Manager collaborates with other plant leaders to grow and improve standards and processes. Specific responsibilities include:

• Motivating, supporting, and providing guidance to production team members, including Value Stream Supervisors.
• Directing production staffing planning activities and managing the production spending budget for tools and supplies to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
• Maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and plant cleanliness.
• Establishing and executing training and development plans for the production team.
• Leading problem‑solving and improvement initiatives to close gaps for KPIs.
• Upholding plant standards and ensuring accountability for the production team.
• Implementing TPM/Lean continuous improvement best practices and coordinating with the C.I. Manager.
• Coordinating with safety, quality, maintenance, HR, continuous improvement, and training leadership to develop, improve, and implement standards.
• Participating in long‑range strategic planning for key operational initiatives and equipment/facility improvements.

• Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, ideally in a food manufacturing environment.
• Prior leadership experience, guiding teams to achieve business objectives.
• Previous supervisory experience, including employee hiring, engagement, coaching, development, performance reviews, and discipline.
• Knowledge and experience with relevant food manufacturing requirements: OSHA, FDA, GMPs, HACCP, and other applicable regulations.
• Knowledge and experience with manufacturing best practices: TPM, Lean, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to flex style for different audiences.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, acting as a servant leader to the team.
• Strong organizational skills, follow‑through, and independence.
• Ability to serve as a change agent, effectively communicating and championing changes.
• Analytical skills, using data to prioritize and focus efforts.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing situations.
• Ability to balance and achieve positive results in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee relations.
• Ability to delegate responsibility and authority necessary for the department to function effectively while retaining overall accountability for results.

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a welcoming workplace where all individuals are valued, respected, and empowered. We proudly offer benefit programs that support our team members’ goals and well‑being, including:

• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and “pay it forward” time off.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 401(k) with company match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country.
• Annual bonus potential and merit‑based increases.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Annual well‑being subsidy.
• 20 weeks maternity and 12 weeks paternity leave options.
• Sam’s Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement.
• Tuition‑free college program or free continued education (BA, Masters, etc.).
• Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos).

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/non‑discrimination employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market:
Cincinnati