Operations Manager

Sappi • Westbrook, ME

30d

About The Position

The Manufacturing Operations Manager leads the safe, efficient, and cost-effective manufacture of release paper products and drives operational excellence, employee engagement, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction. The position provides leadership for Coating, Converting, Finishing, Material Handling, and Shipping, with accountability for production goals, asset performance, employee development, costs, and a strong safety culture. The role is part of the Mill Leadership Team in Westbrook, Maine.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
• At least 10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Prior leadership experience in a unionized manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and cost management.
• Proven experience in labor relations, employee development, communication, and strategic planning.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

• Lean Six Sigma certification or advanced Lean Six Sigma experience.
• Experience with paper manufacturing, coating operations, or related process industries.
• Familiarity with release paper products and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and promote a culture of safety, ensuring compliance with safety programs, policies, and procedures.
• Drive employee engagement through effective communication and collaboration with union leadership and employees at all levels.
• Develop and execute production plans to meet customer requirements while maximizing efficiency, quality, and reliability.
• Coordinate manufacturing activities with Customer Service, Maintenance, Engineering, and Procurement to achieve business objectives.
• Lead, coach, and develop salaried and hourly employees, including performance management, training, and workforce development.
• Support labor relations activities, including grievance resolution and participation in labor negotiations.
• Manage operating budgets, monitor expenditures, analyze variances, and identify opportunities to improve financial performance.
• Partner with site leadership to develop and execute long-term operational strategies and capital improvement plans.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma principles to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager