Role Overview for Plant Manager (Beverage) – Atlanta, GA
JRG Partners is actively seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Plant Manager (Beverage) to spearhead operations at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Atlanta, Georgia. This pivotal leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in the beverage industry, capable of overseeing all aspects of plant operations, from production and quality control to safety, maintenance, and supply chain management. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality products while maintaining stringent safety and regulatory compliance.
As the Plant Manager, you will be the linchpin of our client’s Atlanta facility, responsible for optimizing production processes, enhancing efficiency, and managing the plant’s financial performance. You will lead a diverse team, inspiring them to achieve ambitious production targets, uphold the highest standards of product quality, and adhere to all safety protocols. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic leader to make a significant impact on the company’s growth and success within the competitive beverage market.
You will be expected to leverage your extensive industry knowledge to identify opportunities for innovation, cost reduction, and capacity expansion, ensuring the plant operates at peak performance. Your leadership will directly influence employee engagement, operational stability, and the overall profitability of the facility. This is more than just a management position; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of beverage manufacturing in a critical market, working with cutting-edge technology and a dedicated workforce.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager (Beverage) – Atlanta, GA
Strategic Operational Leadership
Develop and execute operational strategies that align with business goals, focusing on maximizing production output, improving efficiency, and reducing waste within a high-volume beverage manufacturing environment. Manage the plant’s profit and loss (P&L) statement, developing and adhering to operational budgets, and identifying cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety.
Production Management & Optimization
Oversee all production activities, including scheduling, material flow, and resource allocation, to ensure timely and efficient manufacturing of beverage products. Implement and champion advanced manufacturing principles, such as Lean Manufacturing principles, to continuously improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Quality Assurance & Food Safety
Establish and enforce rigorous quality control standards and food safety programs (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, GMPs) to ensure all products meet or exceed regulatory requirements and internal specifications. Lead initiatives to maintain and improve product quality, conducting regular audits and implementing corrective actions as necessary. Foster a culture where quality is everyone’s responsibility.
Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) Management
Champion a proactive safety culture, ensuring compliance with all OSHA regulations and company safety policies. Implement robust safety programs, conduct regular safety audits, and lead efforts to minimize workplace accidents and injuries. Oversee environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives within the facility.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of production supervisors, operators, and support staff. Foster a positive and engaging work environment that encourages continuous learning, professional growth, and accountability. Conduct performance reviews, set clear objectives, and manage employee relations effectively.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
Drive a culture of continuous improvement by implementing methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen events to identify and eliminate waste, streamline processes, and enhance productivity. Encourage innovation and the adoption of new technologies and best practices to maintain a competitive edge.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Collaborate closely with supply chain teams to optimize raw material procurement, inventory levels, and logistics, ensuring a steady supply of inputs and efficient distribution of finished goods. Minimize inventory holding costs while preventing stock-outs.
Maintenance & Engineering Oversight
Partner with the maintenance and engineering departments to ensure the reliability and optimal performance of all plant equipment and infrastructure. Oversee preventative maintenance programs, manage capital expenditure projects, and ensure timely resolution of equipment breakdowns.
Budgeting & Financial Performance
Develop, manage, and control the plant’s operating budget, including labor, materials, and overheads. Analyze financial reports and operational data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and areas requiring corrective action to achieve financial targets.
Regulatory Compliance & Audits
Ensure the facility operates in full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to food safety (FDA), environmental protection, and labor laws. Prepare for and successfully navigate internal and external audits.
Cross-functional Collaboration
Work effectively with other departments such as R&D, Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Human Resources to ensure seamless operations, successful new product introductions, and alignment with overall business objectives.
Requirements for the Plant Manager (Beverage) – Atlanta, GA
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial), Food Science, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) is highly desirable and will be given preference.
Industry Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in plant management within the beverage or liquid food manufacturing industry is essential. Candidates must demonstrate a deep understanding of high-speed bottling, aseptic processing, carbonation, and packaging technologies.
Operational Excellence Expertise
Proven expertise in implementing and sustaining continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). Certification in Lean or Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt) is a significant advantage.
Financial Acumen
Strong experience in managing a plant’s P&L statement, developing and managing multi-million dollar budgets, and identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency gains. Demonstrated ability to analyze complex financial data and translate it into actionable operational strategies.
Safety & Quality Systems
In-depth knowledge of and experience with food safety regulations (e.g., FSMA, HACCP, GMPs), quality management systems (ISO standards preferred), and occupational safety regulations (OSHA). Proven ability to build and maintain a strong safety culture.
Leadership & People Management
Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of successfully managing, motivating, and developing large teams (100+ employees) in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong conflict resolution, performance management, and team-building capabilities.
Technical Proficiency
Familiarity with modern manufacturing execution systems (MES), enterprise resource planning (ERP) software (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and other relevant production planning and control tools. Understanding of automation and industry 4.0 concepts in beverage production.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization, from plant floor employees to senior executives, as well as external stakeholders. Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
Problem-Solving & Decision Making
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex operational challenges, identify root causes, and implement effective, data-driven solutions under pressure. Proactive and decisive decision-maker.
Adaptability & Resilience
Ability to thrive in a dynamic, rapidly evolving manufacturing environment, adapting to changing priorities and market demands while maintaining focus on long-term strategic goals.
Relocation
This position is based in Atlanta, GA. Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent in the industry. As a Plant Manager (Beverage) in Atlanta, GA, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards, complemented by a performance-based annual bonus program.
Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, ensuring access to quality healthcare.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions to help you build financial security for your future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation days, sick leave, and company-paid holidays to support work-life balance and personal well-being.
Life & Disability Insurance
Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage for added peace of mind.
Professional Development
Opportunities for continuous learning, training programs, and career advancement within a growing organization. We invest in our leaders’ growth.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates moving to the Atlanta area, comprehensive relocation support may be provided to ensure a smooth transition.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Confidential resources and support for personal and work-related challenges.
Dynamic Work Environment
Join a forward-thinking company with a collaborative culture, dedicated to innovation and excellence in the beverage industry.
Impactful Role
The chance to lead a significant manufacturing operation and directly influence the company’s success and market position.
How to Apply
Are you ready to take the helm of a leading beverage manufacturing facility in Atlanta, GA? If you possess the strategic vision, operational expertise, and leadership capabilities required for this challenging yet rewarding Plant Manager role, we encourage you to apply today.
Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience and accomplishments to JRG Partners. In your cover letter, highlight specific examples of how you have driven operational improvements, managed P&L, and fostered a high-performance culture in previous beverage manufacturing roles. We are eager to learn how your skills and experience align with the demands of this critical leadership position.
Explore more about executive opportunities in the sector by visiting JRG Partners’ Manufacturing & Operations practice area.
