About The Role
We are seeking a strategic, results-driven
Vice President of Operations to lead and optimize manufacturing performance across our operations. This executive will be responsible for driving operational excellence, improving plant performance, and aligning production capabilities with business growth and customer needs.
As a recognized sustainability leader in our market, we are committed to operational practices that not only deliver exceptional quality and efficiency but also minimize environmental impact. The VP of Operations will play a key role in advancing our leadership in sustainable manufacturing, continuous improvement, and cross-functional execution.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Leadership
- Define and lead the operations strategy in alignment with company growth objectives, including capacity planning, cost optimization, and supply reliability.
- Advance our position as a sustainability leader by integrating environmentally responsible practices into daily manufacturing operations.
- Build, mentor, and lead high-performing plant leadership and operations teams; foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and employee development.
- Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to strategic planning, capital investment, and innovation initiatives.
- Manage the quarterly and annual budget process and P&L responsibilities for operations
Manufacturing & Operational Excellence
- Oversee all plant operations including manufacturing, maintenance, and facilities across our production network.
- Drive Lean Manufacturing, OEE improvement, and cost-reduction initiatives to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality.
- Align production capabilities with demand forecasts, customer requirements, and inventory strategies.
Sustainability & Compliance
- Embed circular economy principles and sustainable operations across all production processes.
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in all facilities.
- Champion energy and waste reduction efforts across sites.
Project & Performance Management
- Lead cross-functional execution of capacity expansion, equipment installation, and capital improvement projects.
- Establish KPIs to track plant performance, productivity, and continuous improvement results.
- Align operations planning with demand forecasts, product launches, and inventory goals.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing or operations within thermoforming, plastics, or a related environment.
- Proven track record of leading multi-site manufacturing teams and driving measurable operational improvement.
- Deep understanding of production systems, maintenance, safety, and Lean practices.
Preferred
- Master's degree or MBA.
- Experience leading sustainability or circular economy initiatives in a manufacturing setting.
- Familiarity with medical or food-grade packaging, including regulatory frameworks such as ISO and FDA.
Key Competencies
- Strategic thinking and systems-level problem solving
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Deep commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability
- Exceptional cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
- Excellent operational planning and execution discipline
- Fluency in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
Why Join Us?
We are a growing, family-oriented thermoforming company with a bold vision for the future. As sustainability leaders in our industry, we are committed to responsible innovation, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships with our customers. Join us to shape the future of packaging and leave a lasting, positive impact on the world.
Placon employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, basic physical, background check, educational verification, and reference checks (as applicable).
Placon requires that employees have and maintain authorization to work in the country in which the role is based. In general, Placon does not sponsor candidates for non-immigrant visas or permanent residency unless based on business need.
Placon is committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics.
