Production Manager - Eau Claire WI

Ventek Solutions•Eau Claire, WI

13d•Onsite

About The Position

Ventek Solutions (Ventek) is a leading manufacturer specializing in engineered shape molded foam components, protective packaging, and multi-material assembly solutions. The organization helps customers address complex challenges in product protection, component light-weighting, insulation, and design simplification. Ventek’s services span a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, electronics, medical, and more. Ventek Solutions leverages creative design, thoughtful engineering, and meticulous program management to deliver customized solutions. Ventek operates 8 plants in the US and Mexico with corporate headquarters in Charleston, SC. In 2024, Black Diamond Capital Management acquired the Protective Solutions segment of Sonoco Products Company, rebranding the business as Ventek Solutions LLC. This acquisition encompassed the existing manufacturing footprint along with the embedded design engineering, program management, and commercial resources. As Ventek Solutions, we are dedicated to maintaining our advanced capabilities in creative design, thoughtful engineering, meticulous program management, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Production Manager to join our team. This position will be located at Ventek Solution's Eau Claire location and report to the Plant Manager. The Production Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of manufacturing operations, including safety, quality, on-time delivery, productivity, material handling, cost performance, employee development, and capital improvements. This role plays a critical part in fostering a high-performance, team-based environment and ensuring compliance with best manufacturing practices and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain, Engineering or Business degree required. Equivalent experience will be considered.
Minimum 5 years of manufacturing leadership experience.
Proven track record of safety leadership and commitment.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint (charts, SOPs, One-Point Lessons, presentations).
CPR/AED and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including support for all shifts.
High integrity and ethical standards; able to remain composed under pressure.
Comfortable speaking in front of and training large groups
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
This position requires the ability to navigate a manufacturing environment, including exposure to loud noise, fluctuating temperatures, and moving mechanical parts. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in designated areas.
Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.
The work setting is a dynamic production facility with varying temperature conditions and consistent exposure to manufacturing equipment. A commitment to PPE usage and safety compliance is essential.

Responsibilities

Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all OSHA, EPA, and other regulatory standards.
Develop, train, and mentor employees to build a high-performing team.
Provide motivation, guidance, and support to production personnel.
Communicate operational issues and performance metrics with the Plant Manager and leadership team.
Establish workflow processes that improve speed and efficiency while ensuring product integrity.
Create and maintain staffing schedules to optimize labor coverage.
Assist in preparing and managing the annual operating budget.
Support employee relations and work closely with HR on disciplinary matters and employee concerns.
Lead hiring, onboarding, and mentoring of staff from diverse backgrounds.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives including 5S, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen events.
Manage production schedules to meet customer demand while controlling overtime, inventory, and costs.
Promote quality standards to ensure products meet or exceed customer expectations; oversee completion of quality checks and audits.
Foster positive employee relations and satisfaction through strong communication, coaching, and development.
Recommend and lead capital projects that enhance operational performance.