Department Manager - Automation & Productivity Focused

TOPPAN Packaging Americas•Huntley, IL

2d•$79,356 - $89,928•Onsite

About The Position

As Toppan Packaging continues to modernize and grow, we are looking for a dynamic and experienced Department Manager to lead a key production team with a strong emphasis on driving productivity, operational discipline, and embracing automation. This role is responsible for achieving world-class safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance while managing a diverse workforce. Experience in facilities with automation and robotics is a must, as this leader will be instrumental in scaling operational efficiency through technology. What You’ll Be Doing Ensure a safe working environment by leading proactive safety programs and complying with all relevant regulations (OSHA, EPA, etc.). Drive productivity improvements and cost savings through the application of automation, robotics, and lean principles. Hire, train, and mentor a culturally diverse workforce across multiple shifts and production lines. Manage departmental KPIs including throughput, scrap, uptime, and labor efficiency. Take corrective actions as needed. Lead continuous improvement efforts such as 5S, Kaizen events, Six Sigma projects, and digital workflow enhancements. Ensure robust quality control practices are upheld, including checks, audits, and adherence to GMP. Partner with Maintenance and Engineering to drive uptime and successful integration of automation equipment. Create staffing schedules that optimize labor while meeting productivity and service goals. Coach, counsel, and manage performance with consistency and fairness. Partner with HR on complex issues. Communicate departmental updates, challenges, and successes to senior leadership regularly. Maintain compliance with internal policies, regulatory standards, and customer requirements. Additional Responsibilities as Assigned. This is an onsite position based out of our Huntley, IL Facility

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Operations Management.
5+ years of experience in a production leadership role within manufacturing, including experience with automation systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; able to generate reports, SOPs, and visual presentations.
Track record of improving departmental performance through coaching and structured problem-solving.
Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
Above average verbal and written communication skills
High integrity, accountability, and a hands-on leadership style.
Willingness to work flexible hours as needed to support all shifts.

Nice To Haves

bilingual in Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

Ensure a safe working environment by leading proactive safety programs and complying with all relevant regulations (OSHA, EPA, etc.).
Drive productivity improvements and cost savings through the application of automation, robotics, and lean principles.
Hire, train, and mentor a culturally diverse workforce across multiple shifts and production lines.
Manage departmental KPIs including throughput, scrap, uptime, and labor efficiency. Take corrective actions as needed.
Lead continuous improvement efforts such as 5S, Kaizen events, Six Sigma projects, and digital workflow enhancements.
Ensure robust quality control practices are upheld, including checks, audits, and adherence to GMP.
Partner with Maintenance and Engineering to drive uptime and successful integration of automation equipment.
Create staffing schedules that optimize labor while meeting productivity and service goals.
Coach, counsel, and manage performance with consistency and fairness. Partner with HR on complex issues.
Communicate departmental updates, challenges, and successes to senior leadership regularly.
Maintain compliance with internal policies, regulatory standards, and customer requirements.
Additional Responsibilities as Assigned.