Plant Manager

James Hardie • Prattville, AL

52d

About The Position

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®. With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities. For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com . Summary The Plant Manager is a senior operational leader responsible for directing and optimizing the daily operations of a larger, more complex, or multi‑line manufacturing facility. This role oversees multiple layers of leadership—including supervisors, managers, engineers, and production teams—and is accountable for strategic planning, operational excellence, financial performance, and culture development within the plant. A Plant Manager not only ensures efficient and safe production but also drives long‑term improvements, influences cross‑functional initiatives, and aligns plant operations with broader organizational strategies. Individuals in this role exhibit exceptional leadership, advanced operational expertise, and high‑level decision-making abilities. They are expected to think proactively, mentor future leaders, and consistently deliver world-class operational outcomes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field (required).
• Typically requires 7–10+ years in manufacturing operations, including:
• 3–5 years in plant leadership or multi-department management,
• Significant experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing large-scale operations, multiple production lines, or a facility with complex product workflows.

Nice To Haves

• MBA or advanced degree (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Oversee complex or high-volume manufacturing operations, ensuring consistent performance across multiple production areas.
• Develop multi-year operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across quality, safety, production, and cost-efficiency.
• Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence frameworks throughout the plant.
• Plan and manage production capacity, asset utilization, and throughput to meet or exceed organizational targets.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs): OEE, scrap/rework, downtime, labor efficiency, and cost per unit.
• Implement advanced data-driven processes to optimize workflow, reduce waste, and maximize resource allocation.
• Develop, maintain, and forecast annual operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost-control plans.
• Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, reduce costs, and support strategic investment decisions.
• Ensure high-value ROI on equipment, technology upgrades, and process improvements.
• Ensure strict adherence to all regulatory standards (OSHA, EPA, ISO, etc.).
• Champion a strong safety culture, owning all plant-level EHS performance.
• Oversee quality management systems and ensure consistency with certification and industry standards.
• Manage a larger leadership structure including supervisors, operations managers, engineering teams, and support staff.
• Develop managerial talent, succession plans, and high-performance teams.
• Coach and mentor direct reports and emerging leaders to enhance operational capability and career growth.
• Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Corporate Leadership to drive business initiatives.
• Support new product introductions, plant expansions, and technology integrations.
• Serve as a key voice in corporate initiatives affecting operations, safety, quality, and workforce development.
• Deliver high-impact operational reports and presentations to senior executives.
• Communicate plant performance, risks, and opportunities transparently.
• Build trust and alignment across all levels of the organization—from floor team members to executive leadership.

Benefits

• Comprehensive low-cost co-pay Health Insurance; medical, dental, prescription, and vision insurance benefits for every 30+ hour full-time employee. Insurance starts on day one!
• 401 (k) Retirement plan that will match 100% of employees saved dollars up to the first 6% of your salary
• Paid holidays, paid vacation including Jury Duty and bereavement leave
• Wellness Program , Employee Assistance Program .
• Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

What This Job Offers

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