Leadman & Associates is partnering on an exclusive search for an experienced Plant Manager to lead a high-performing food manufacturing facility located in Portage, WI.

This role offers the chance to take ownership of a large, established facility that’s recently undergone major upgrades and reinvestment. The right leader will bring proven manufacturing experience, a process mindset, and a people-first approach to driving safety, quality, and efficiency.

If you thrive in fast-paced environments, know how to lead through influence, and love developing people as much as improving operations, this is an excellent opportunity to make a visible impact.

Why You Should Consider This Opportunity

• Strong Compensation + Bonus: High base plus 10% annual bonus

• Relocation Support: Available for qualified candidates

• Operational Scope: Over 200,000 sq. ft. facility with multiple production lines and an on-site distribution center

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Planning, Scheduling, Purchasing, and Continuous Improvement teams

• Leadership Impact: Report directly to the SVP of Manufacturing with autonomy to drive meaningful change

In This Role, You Will

• Oversee all plant operations, ensuring performance targets for safety, quality, and output are met or exceeded

• Lead and mentor departmental managers, supervisors, and team leads across operations, quality, maintenance, and logistics

• Drive continuous improvement through Lean/CI initiatives to enhance OEE, reduce waste, and strengthen accountability

• Manage plant budgets and financials, ensuring alignment with divisional goals

• Build and sustain a culture of safety, engagement, and ownership at every level

• Partner cross-functionally with supply chain, corporate operations, and CI leadership to share best practices

• Support ongoing capital improvement projects and future production line transitions

What You Bring to the Table

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Manufacturing, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)

• 10+ years in food manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity

• Proven record of improving plant performance and leading large teams in fast-paced environments

• Demonstrated success executing Lean/Kaizen or other CI initiatives that drove measurable improvement

• Financial acumen with experience overseeing large-scale budgets and production metrics

• Strong communication and coaching skills—able to lead from the floor and build trust quickly

• Hands-on, visible leader who leads by example and knows how to motivate teams through change

Why This Role Stands Out

This facility is in growth mode after major reinvestment, offering both stability and the freedom to innovate. You’ll step into a visible leadership seat where your decisions directly influence performance, culture, and long-term success.

If you’re a manufacturing leader who thrives on accountability, collaboration, and results- you’ll find this role both challenging and rewarding.

Interested candidates can apply below or send an email to:  jobs@leadmanandassociates.com.