Plant Operations Manager
Colgate-PalmoliveRelocation Assistance Offered Within Country Job Number #177205 - Cambridge, Ohio, United States Who We Are Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company operating in over 200 countries specializing in Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care, Skin Care, and Pet Nutrition. Our products are trusted in more households than any other brand in the world, making us a household name! Join Colgate-Palmolive, a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets, and our planet. Guided by our core values—Caring, Inclusive, and Courageous—we foster a culture that inspires our people to achieve common goals. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for all. The (Senior) Plant Operations Manager is responsible for the holistic management of all production operations within the facility, including packaging, filling, and vertical integration. This role serves as a critical bridge between site leadership and shop-floor execution. The successful candidate will drive world-class manufacturing standards through the development of high-performing work teams, strategic resource utilization, and a relentless focus on continuous improvement and safety. Responsibilities Leading all plant operations to achieve and exceed KPIs in EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety), Quality, Productivity and Efficiency. Developing and executing strategic procedures to increase facility-wide productivity and on-time delivery to customers. Facilitating strategic change management and developing robust contingency plans to ensure business continuity in volatile environments. Developing and implementing sustainability processes based on lean manufacturing principles for long term plant success. Driving continuous improvement initiatives to reduce conversion costs, optimizing capital/inventory, reduce scrap cost and improve overall factory cash flow. Implementing and sustaining FP&R (Factory Performance & Reliability) standards, with a specific focus on Autonomous Maintenance, Visual Workplace, and 5S. Developing and mentoring future leaders of the company. Recommending and implementing organizational structure changes based on technology and business changes. Cultivate a 'Lean-First' environment where front-line autonomy is driven by data-based decision-making and a shared commitment to standardized work and operational excellence. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Chemical or Mechanical preferred), Chemistry, or a related technical field. 8+ years of progressive experience in Supply Chain/Manufacturing, with at least 8 years in a management role. 5+ years of experience with SAP or similar Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Familiarity with Wonderware, Opera, or similar SCADA/MES systems. Deep understanding of EHS standards and experience working in regulated environments (FDA, EPA, OSHA). Demonstrated excellence in written and verbal communication, with the ability to simplify complex operational data for key stakeholders. Preferred Qualifications MBA or a Master’s in an Engineering or Technical field Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification Experience in P&L management and/or working within a unionized manufacturing environment Mastery of ISO 9000 and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) Compensation and Benefits Salary Range $124,000.00 - $155,000.00 USD Pay is determined based on experience, qualifications, and location. Salaried employees may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses, profit-sharing, and long-term incentives for Executive-level roles. Benefits: Salaried employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, paid parental leave, disability coverage, and participation in the 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions subject to eligibility requirements. Additional benefits include a minimum of 15 vacation/PTO days (hourly employees receive a minimum of…