General Manager

Smithfield Foods•Carroll, IA

17d

About The Position

The General Manager leads and oversees all aspects of a Smithfield business unit site, shaping operational success through operational excellence, strategic alignment, and effective culture. The role is accountable for producing high-quality products, profitability, and a safe, secure, and efficient workplace. The General Manager plans and manages budgets, optimizes resources, and directs the use of labor, raw materials, yields, and supplies while fostering teamwork and employee development. This position oversees plant operations and production teams, manages P&L and budgets, and leads process improvements and cost-saving initiatives. It also champions safety, quality, sustainability, and positive community relationships. The role may include other duties as assigned. The position requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and other hours as operational needs dictate, as well as travel to meetings and other locations 10–20% of the time. Relocation package available.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Agriculture, Animal Science, Business, or a related field and 10+ years of plant management experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 5 years of demonstrated experience in team management and development.
Ability to lead diverse teams, foster an inclusive environment, and build strong working relationships in dynamic, fast-paced settings.
Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills.
Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work nights, weekends, and flexible hours as needed to meet operational demands.
Ability and willingness to travel to meetings and other locations 10–20% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of manufacturing processes and OSHA, USDA, and food safety regulations.
Knowledge of the pork industry and meat products.
Experience identifying and implementing continuous improvement plans, lean manufacturing initiatives, 5S, and statistical analysis.
Proficiency in SAP, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.
Knowledge of cost accounting and P&L management.

Responsibilities

Optimize operational performance and efficiency using key metrics to implement solutions that support profitability and operational success.
Lead employee development and coaching to promote a positive employee experience.
Manage P&L and drive growth and profitability across business units.
Shape and manage budgets to align with strategic goals.
Promote a safe, sustainable, and quality-driven operation.
Build positive relationships with employees and the community.
Evaluate plant efficiencies and identify and facilitate process improvement projects using A3 methodology.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes, product quality, efficiency, and repeatability across multiple facilities.
Troubleshoot operational issues and support sustainable operational improvements.
Oversee all shift production operations and direct salaried and hourly production group leaders.
Develop and motivate teams, promoting accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Perform other duties as assigned.