What are the responsibilities and job description for the Plant Manager position at Forte Opening Solutions?
Description
At Forte Opening Solutions, we don't just manufacture doors; we create pathways to possibilities. We empower our employees to shape the future of our industry. Join a team where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology, and where your ideas can open new doors. Together, we build not just products, but a culture of excellence and collaboration.
Position Summary
We are seeking a results-driven Plant Manager to lead our manufacturing operations with a strong emphasis on people leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. This role oversees all plant activities over two locations Birchwood WI & Thorp WI through a team of managers, supervisors, and team leads, ensuring safe operations, high-quality output, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate is a servant leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, inspires teams, and drives performance through Lean principles and strategic collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture
Qualifications
A servant leader who:
At Forte Opening Solutions, we don't just manufacture doors; we create pathways to possibilities. We empower our employees to shape the future of our industry. Join a team where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology, and where your ideas can open new doors. Together, we build not just products, but a culture of excellence and collaboration.
Position Summary
We are seeking a results-driven Plant Manager to lead our manufacturing operations with a strong emphasis on people leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. This role oversees all plant activities over two locations Birchwood WI & Thorp WI through a team of managers, supervisors, and team leads, ensuring safe operations, high-quality output, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate is a servant leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, inspires teams, and drives performance through Lean principles and strategic collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture
- Champion a culture of safety, accountability, and engagement across all levels of the plant
- Lead, coach, and develop plant leadership and production teams through clear communication, performance feedback, and professional development
- Foster strong cross-functional relationships with Sales, Finance, and other divisional plant managers to align on goals and share best practices
- Promote a customer-focused growth approach that reinforces dedication to the success and satisfaction of our customers, today and tomorrow
- Oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, quality standards, and customer expectations
- Drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to improve safety, reduce costs, shorten lead times, and enhance customer satisfaction
- Monitor plant KPIs and implement corrective actions to ensure consistent performance and operational excellence
- Own full P&L responsibility for the plant; manage cost structure and drive productivity initiatives to offset inflation and support growth
- Collaborate with Finance, Sales, and Marketing to align operational capabilities with business objectives
- Evaluate capital investments and staffing decisions with sound financial acumen
- Ensure 100% compliance with safety policies, environmental regulations, and company procedures
- Establish and maintain standardized work processes across locations in partnership with divisional plant managers
- Maintain functional knowledge of Quality Management Systems and Supply Chain operations
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, or related field
- 8 years of progressive operations leadership in a manufacturing environment
- Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
- Strong communication, mentoring, and team-building skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead through change and prioritize in a dynamic environment
- Financial acumen with prior P&L ownership
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook; fast and accurate data entry skills
- Passion for employee engagement and a hands-on leadership style
A servant leader who:
- Leads with integrity and empathy
- Builds strong, empowered teams
- Thrives on solving problems and driving results
- Spends time on the floor, listening and leading by example
- Brings energy, accountability, and a customer-first mindset
