Senior Manager, Plant Operations

WK Kellogg•Memphis, TN

10d•$164,160 - $205,200

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Plant Operations leads the strategic and operational direction of multiple business units within a high-performing, large-scale, 24/7 manufacturing operation and line-centric manufacturing platform. The role drives excellence in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people development by empowering Operations Managers and Supervisors and fostering continuous improvement and accountability. The position is based in a 24/7 union manufacturing facility, requires flexibility to work any shift and travel up to 25%, and requires regular production-floor presence and frequent interaction with internal teams and external partners. It reports to the Plant Director and supervises Operations Managers and Supervisors.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing.
Proven success leading large teams and managing multiple production lines.
Strong understanding of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement systems.
Demonstrated ability to lead through others and build effective teams.
Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SAP.
Experience with budget creation and performance management.
Must be flexible to work any shift and travel up to 25%.
Regular presence on the production floor is required.
Ability to work a full shift, arrive on time, work overtime as needed, and follow the schedule necessary to meet job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Experience in union environments.
Experience working within a 24/7 manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Set direction and priorities for assigned business units in alignment with plant goals and corporate strategy.
Lead, coach, and develop Operations Managers and Supervisors to build high-performing teams and future leaders.
Ensure execution of production plans and strong results across plant KPIs, including safety, quality, food safety, cost, and service.
Lead planning, cross-functional alignment, and successful implementation of innovation and projects entering the plant.
Own business planning and budgeting for assigned units, including cost containment and resource allocation.
Champion and sustain lean manufacturing principles and WK Kellogg Integrated Work Systems (KIWS) across all units.
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, engagement, continuous learning, and recognition.
Ensure compliance with regulatory and internal standards related to safety, food safety, sanitation, and labor relations.
Partner with support functions and external stakeholders to optimize performance and resolve complex challenges.