Interim Plant Manager

Think is seeking an experienced Interim Plant Manager to lead a full operational turnaround at a newly ramped manufacturing facility in Virginia. The site is currently in a critical stabilization phase, requiring a strong, hands-on leader to restore operational discipline, rebuild workforce capability, and implement sustainable production processes.

**This role is looking for someone who can travel weekly into Virginia within a drivable commuting distance

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Assume full responsibility for day-to-day plant operations (safety, quality, production, and fulfillment)
• Stabilize and optimize production lines, beginning with phased restart and scale-up
• Identify and eliminate bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and quality issues
• Establish clear KPIs, performance routines, and production standards

Workforce & Organizational Reset

• Assess workforce capabilities across all shifts and functions
• Lead restructuring efforts, including staffing adjustments where needed
• Implement structured cross-training programs to reduce key-person dependency
• Drive improved discipline, attendance, and accountability

Process & Continuous Improvement

• Implement Lean / Six Sigma / 5S methodologies
• Standardize processes and ensure consistent execution across shifts
• Improve operational reliability, throughput, and product quality

Leadership & Culture

• Provide visible, hands-on leadership on the shop floor
• Coach and develop supervisors and frontline leaders
• Establish a culture of performance, ownership, and continuous improvement

Deliverables & Success Metrics

• Rapid stabilization of production output and operational performance
• Improved on-time delivery and product quality
• Fully defined and standardized production processes
• Strengthened leadership structure and workforce capability
• Reduced reliance on temporary labor and improved workforce reliability
• Clear roadmap and handover plan for permanent leadership

Candidate Profile

Required Experience

• Proven track record in manufacturing plant turnarounds or operational stabilization
• Experience leading underperforming or distressed facilities
• Strong background in high-volume manufacturing environments
• Demonstrated success in workforce restructuring and performance improvement

Leadership Style

• Hands-on, “roll-up-your-sleeves” operator
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous, and high-pressure environments
• Strong decision-making and execution capabilities
• Ability to quickly build credibility with frontline teams

Technical & Functional Skills

• Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Production planning, process optimization, and KPI management
• Workforce assessment, organizational design, and change management

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status