PLANT MANAGER

Are you a bold, strategic leader ready to take ownership of a high-impact manufacturing facility? KENT Worldwide™ is looking for a Plant Manager to lead operations at our Columbus, MS plant - and we’re not just looking for someone to manage, we’re looking for someone to transform! In this pivotal role, you’ll be the driving force behind daily plant operations—from production and manufacturing to ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures. You’ll shape and refine processes that elevate safety, quality, team culture, customer satisfaction, and overall performance. Ready to join a US Best Managed Company?

• This position is designed and intended to be performed in Columbus, MS.
  
  
  

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Production and maintenance managers, shift supervisors, plant employees
  
  
  

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and Inspire Teams: Ensure safe, efficient production by guiding staff and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Drive Operational Excellence: Champion lean manufacturing principles, visual management tools, and performance metrics to boost productivity and efficiency.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate across departments to streamline communication and optimize production methods.
• Maintenance & Reliability: Oversee maintenance strategies that support operational goals and prioritize equipment reliability.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to long-term planning and recommend capital improvements that enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Quality Assurance: Partner with QA to uphold industry standards, minimize out-of-spec product, and resolve quality incidents effectively.
• Safety Leadership: Actively engage in safety initiatives to maintain a low incident rate and ensure compliance with core safety procedures.
• Sanitation & Housekeeping: Enforce GMPs and lead sanitation audits to maintain a clean, compliant facility.
• Cost Management: Operate within budget parameters, focusing on staffing, supplies, utilities, and capital projects.
• People Development: Build strong teams, support training and onboarding, and promote a values-driven culture across the plant.
  
  
  

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of 10 years management experience in a food plant manufacturing environment
• Bachelor degree in Engineering or other related field preferred
• Possess excellent leadership skills
• High level knowledge in liquid food processing equipment, GMPs, HACCP, OSHA and plant safety practices
• Must have strong ERP systems knowledge and understand MRP, and material control & inventory transaction reporting
• Must be committed to the manufacture of safe, legal, quality food products
  
  
  

TRAVEL:

• Less than 10%