Operations Manager

Mondi AG•Clinton, PA

About The Position

The Operations Manager is accountable for the end‑to‑end performance of manufacturing operations at a paper bag manufacturing site of approximately 200 employees, with primary focus on printing and converting processes. The role ensures that production is executed safely, efficiently, consistently, and profitably, while maintaining high standards of quality, service, and people leadership. The position requires a deep understanding of paper packaging manufacturing, strong plant-floor leadership, and the ability to manage operations with full business ownership mindset.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or equivalent experience
Minimum 10 years of manufacturing experience, with significant tenure in packaging environments (paper bags, sacks, corrugated, paper mills, folding cartons, flexibles -or similar)
Demonstrated success managing complex operations with strong safety, quality, cost, and service focus
Knowledge of continuous improvement tools (5S, DMS, 6 Sigma, among others)
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, SAP, and MES necessary
Deep technical and operational expertise in any packaging manufacturing
Strong shop-floor leadership and decision-making ability
Business and financial acumen applied to operations
Ability to lead through influence across functions
Structured, data-driven problem-solving
Clear communicator with a pragmatic, results-oriented mindset
Strong verbal and written communication skills

Responsibilities

Own full responsibility for daily, weekly, and monthly production performance across printing and converting operations
Translate customer demand and business priorities into clear, executable production plans
Maintain a strong hands‑on presence on the shop floor, actively leading problem-solving and decision-making
Ensure stable operations through effective staffing, shift management, and adherence to operating standards
Lead safety as a non-negotiable operational priority
Ensure compliance with all occupational safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements, as per Mondi guidelines, OHSAS and local regulations
Actively lead safety reviews, risk assessments, and incident investigations, ensuring corrective actions are sustained
Own and continuously improve key manufacturing KPIs, including: Safety performance OEE, throughput, downtime, waste, scrap, and rework Labor productivity and conversion cost
Lead structured performance routines (daily management, tier meetings, weekly reviews)
Drive a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement, applying lean and root cause methodologies
Ensure operational processes are standardized, documented, and consistently applied across shifts
Work closely with the Maintenance Manager to: Align maintenance strategies with production needs Improve equipment reliability and reduce unplanned downtime
Collaborate with the Services Manager to: Ensure material availability and realistic production scheduling Optimize inventory levels and service performance
Partner with the Quality Manager to: Ensure quality standards are embedded into daily operations Lead effective response to quality deviations and customer issues
Act as the primary operational integrator, aligning priorities and resolving trade-offs across functions
Lead and develop production management and supervisory teams in a non-unionized environment
Build a culture of accountability, ownership, and continuous development
Ensure clear communication of objectives, expectations, and performance feedback
Actively manage performance, address gaps, and develop talent within operations
Own manufacturing cost performance, including labor efficiency, waste, and operating expenses
Develop strong understanding of full site cost structure and conversion economics
Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and operational cost reviews
Identify, prioritize, and deliver cost reduction and productivity initiatives aligned with business priorities
Translate company and commercial strategy into operational actions and priorities
Balance short-term execution with long-term process stability and capability building
Take timely, well-structured decisions to protect safety, service, quality, and cost performance
Contribute actively to site leadership discussions and cross-functional initiatives
Coach, guide, and develop direct reports, create meaningful feedback discussions that support and enhance employee success
Develop and implement team succession plans, training and development
Provide direct supervision of team and drive accountability
Drive performance of staff through finding motivating factors, creating inspiration for your team, and providing resources to help them be successful
Drive regular communication with your team to create organizational awareness and transparency
Ability to self-direct activities, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
Ability to handle multiple tasks and work in a changing environment with strong problem-solving skills
Be an example for your team