Production Manager

Job Title: Production Manager

Report to: SVP Global Business Operations

Location: Shelbyville, Tennessee, USA

Overview of Role:

We are seeking an experienced and driven Production Manager to lead operations for our Casino pen range (foil printing and pen manufacturing with a “Made in the USA” claim) and oversee 12 different promotional decoration processes across multiple technologies. This product line is a cornerstone of our business, shipped throughout North America, and a key driver of growth in our new East Coast Fulfillment facility.

In this role, you will play a pivotal part in setting up and ramping up our new factory, which supports the high-demand Goldstar distributor channel. You will be responsible for ensuring excellence in turnaround time, quality, and OTIF (On Time In Full) performance, while building and leading a strong, engaged production team.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, people-focused leader with proven experience in high-volume manufacturing. You thrive in dynamic environments, embrace lean and agile principles, and know how to deliver results while creating a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all day-to-day production operations, ensuring customer commitments are met while driving continuous improvement.
• Build and develop a strong team through effective recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management.
• Manage and provide direction to the on-site Maintenance and Engineering teams to maximize equipment uptime and reliability.
• Oversee the installation and implementation of new decoration processes and equipment, ensuring smooth integration and operator readiness.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing and best practices to improve productivity, efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain robust production schedules to maximize OTIF (On Time In Full) delivery and achieve business objectives.
• Partner cross-functionally with Quality, Supply Chain, and Customer Service to ensure high-quality products and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor performance against key KPIs (delivery, cost, quality, ROI, productivity) and take proactive steps to achieve targets.
• Drive and sustain a strong culture of 5S, safety, and compliance across all production areas.
• Lead the introduction of new processes, technologies, and product launches in the facility.
• Play a key role in long-term planning, including investments in equipment, capacity expansion, and new technology adoption.
• Support the development of annual operating plans and budgets for the production function.

What we need from you:

• Proven experience as a Production Manager or similar role in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment; experience in printing, promotional products, or related industries a plus.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams in a dynamic and growing environment.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with a track record of delivering results under pressure.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to engage across all levels of the organization.
• Experience with factory start-ups, ramp-ups, or greenfield operations highly desirable.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field preferred.
• Must exhibit a high level of enthusiasm, with a “hands-on style” and a strong work ethic with the capability to adapt to the rapidly changing environment of the fast paced organisation
• Proven ability to lead a team to improve performance in a dynamic environment
• Team player who can communicate with and relate to all people at all levels within the organisation
• Ability to think “outside the box” and grasp new concepts quickly.
• Ability to identify root cause and problem solve at functional level is critical

About Pens.com

Pens.com's personalized promotional products are created for and inspired by small businesses. With 56 years of experience and serving 22 countries worldwide, Pens.com offers MORE value, savings and time to customers through expert guidance on a broad range of personalized promotional products, including writing instruments, stationery, drinkware, bags, gifts, and trade show accessories. Pens.com operates via a network of more than 10 facilities across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

To learn more, visit: www.PENS.com

Pens.com is a National Pen and Cimpress brand (Nasdaq: CMPR).