Job Details

Plant Manager

A global leader in the automotive industry is seeking a Plant Manager for it's facility located in the Knoxville, Tennessee area. This is a high-impact leadership role where you will own the performance of a modern, growth-focused operation while shaping the culture that drives it.

You will lead a talented team, champion world-class safety and quality standards, and drive continuous improvement across all aspects of the plant. With strong executive visibility, real decision-making authority, and access to resources for investing in people and technology, you'll have the opportunity to scale what's working and quickly address areas for improvement.

If you are energized by building high-performing teams, modernizing operations, and delivering measurable results, this role offers the chance to make a visible, career-defining impact from day one.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive adherence to Plant Management Requirements (PMR) and continuously improve performance
• Develop and execute annual business plans focused on profitability, operational excellence, and accurate forecasting
• Implement and sustain Lean manufacturing principles, including Toyota Production System (TPS), to improve flow and connectivity
• Lead all plant performance metrics, including safety, quality, productivity, cost, delivery, and continuous improvement
• Communicate plant performance, financial results, and long-term strategic objectives (Hoshin) to senior leadership
• Foster a culture of safety, environmental responsibility, and quality compliance
• Promote a strong customer service mindset across all levels of the organization
• Develop and mentor plant leadership through coaching, communication, and team-building initiatives
• Represent the organization within the local community and support goodwill initiatives
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Leadership Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the plant leadership team in alignment with established policies and procedures

Qualifications

• Proven leadership success in a Lean manufacturing environment, including experience with TPS
• Strong background in manufacturing operations, customer engagement, budgeting, and cost control
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build trust and drive collaboration across teams
• Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making capability in a production environment
• Ability to inspire teams, execute strategy, and develop talent
• Strong focus on maintaining a positive work environment and employee relations

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related Business field
• 5+ years of leadership experience; automotive manufacturing experience preferred
• Previous Plant Manager experience strongly preferred
• TPS training or certification is a plus

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with significant time spent in a manufacturing environment
• Regular exposure to production areas requiring personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and hearing protection
• Requires use of standard office equipment and computer systems
• Approximately 10% travel by car or air