Production Manager

LG Chem - Akron, OH

Full-time - Mid Level

Akron, OH

10,001+ employees

Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing

About the position

The Production Manager at LG Chem is responsible for achieving operational goals in the production area while implementing the company's vision and strategy. This role involves leading Shift Supervisors and managing hourly production employees to meet production and shipping schedules, maintain quality, control costs, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The Production Manager also oversees hiring, training, performance management, and employee relations, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Ensure attainment of operational goals in the production area.
• Provide leadership for Shift Supervisors and hourly production employees.
• Meet production and shipping schedules while maintaining quality and controlling costs.
• Drive continuous improvement and lean practices within the production area.
• Manage hiring, training, coaching, and performance management for assigned departments.
• Develop production and staffing schedules to meet customer demands.
• Troubleshoot production issues and collaborate with the quality team to develop standards.
• Communicate strategic objectives and KPI's to assigned production areas.
• Conduct daily GEMBA meetings to measure achievement towards Key Performance Indicators.
• Manage compliance with relevant policies including production, inspection, quality, and safety.
• Promote activities to manage and minimize yield loss rates.
• Drive employee engagement programs with a focus on recognition.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma.
• Conduct process trials and experiments to improve product performance.
• Ensure compliance with EHS regulations and standards throughout the production process.
• Participate in safety audits and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with HQ, R&D, procurement, and supply chain teams to integrate new materials and technologies.
• Manage IT systems for business operations including ERP and production data management.
• Optimize human and equipment operations to improve production uptime.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Polymer, or Plastics Engineering, Business Administration, or related discipline preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a plastics manufacturing environment.
• Minimum 3 years of people management experience in a manufacturing environment required.
• Excellent communication and coaching skills at all levels.
• Proficiency with computer skills using MS Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems.
• Proficiency with recognized quality systems such as ISO9001, IATF16949, AS9100.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing, quality, and safety practices.
• Prior experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and corporate safety initiatives.