Plant Manager- Indianapolis
About Our Client
Our client is a leading beverage manufacturing company specializing in producing high-quality beverages for world-class brand owners. With a focus on operational excellence and innovation, the company aims to be the premier total beverage supply chain partner in the industry.
Our client values its people as its most valuable asset and is committed to creating economic benefits and opportunities for its associates, partners, and historically underserved communities.
Role Overview
The Plant Manager is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Indianapolis manufacturing plant. This role is fully accountable for meeting plant volume, distribution, quality, and operating plan objectives while fostering a culture of empowerment, integrity, customer centricity, and communication. The Plant Manager will provide direction, coaching, and feedback to the plant leadership team, ensuring alignment with business goals and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
• Ensure the safety of all personnel, facilities, and equipment, and enforce compliance with local laws, pollution control, and workplace safety standards.
• Lead the business planning process, driving project approval, resource allocation, and performance target setting.
• Align plant strategies and objectives with company-wide goals and communicate them clearly across leadership teams.
• Drive innovation through new production lines, packaging, processes, and delivery fleet improvements.
• Optimize manufacturing and supply chain costs while managing resources within or below budget.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts, financial reviews, and KPI analyses to enhance plant performance.
• Mentor, develop, and retain talent by providing opportunities, recognition, and growth pathways.
• Oversee compliance with FDA, ISO, OSHA, GMPs, and customer quality requirements.
• Ensure effective inter-departmental communication and collaboration across the organization.
• Partner with Human Resources on staffing, employee development, and workplace culture.
• Represent the company in industry groups, trade associations, and external committees.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of manufacturing experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of production management, supply chain capabilities, Lean Manufacturing principles, and ERP systems.
• Demonstrated success leading change initiatives in high-volume production environments.
• Proven ability to analyze and interpret financial data, including P&L variances, budgets, and ROI.
• Knowledge of FDA regulations, GMPs, OSHA compliance, and food/beverage safety standards.
• Experience with SAP, inventory management systems, and beverage production methods (hot-fill, brewing, chilled) preferred.
Behaviors & Competencies
• Servant leadership mindset focused on developing and supporting employees.
• Strong accountability, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability in fast-paced manufacturing environments.
• Ability to provide and receive constructive feedback.
• Commitment to personal growth and development while fostering growth in others.
Compensation & Benefits
• Salary range: $160,000 – $200,000, depending on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
• Paid time off and additional benefits eligibility following standard waiting periods
Location & Travel
• Indianapolis, Indiana (on-site leadership role)
• 25% travel required
Equal Opportunity Employer
Our client is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status.