Role Overview for General Manager | Flexible Packaging | Charlotte, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, technology-driven leader in the flexible packaging sector to recruit a dynamic and visionary General Manager for their flagship manufacturing facility in Charlotte, North Carolina. This is a pivotal executive leadership role responsible for the entire scope of the plant’s operations, strategic direction, and financial performance. We are seeking an individual who is not just a manager, but a true business leader capable of steering the facility towards greater heights of operational excellence, market growth, and profitability.
As the General Manager, you will hold full P&L responsibility for a multi-million dollar operation, overseeing a dedicated team across production, engineering, quality, supply chain, and administration. You will be the driving force behind the plant’s culture, championing a work environment rooted in safety, continuous improvement, innovation, and employee engagement. Your strategic oversight will ensure the facility not only meets but exceeds its production targets, quality standards, and customer expectations.
This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a thriving business operating within the rapidly evolving flexible packaging industry. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of packaging manufacturing processes, a proven track record of P&L ownership, and an inspiring leadership style. You will be instrumental in developing and executing long-term business strategies, driving capital investment projects, and fostering key relationships with customers and suppliers. If you are a results-oriented leader with a passion for manufacturing excellence and a desire to lead a high-performing team in a competitive market, we invite you to explore this exceptional career opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of General Manager | Flexible Packaging | Charlotte, NC
The General Manager will be accountable for a wide range of strategic and operational duties, ensuring the plant’s success and alignment with corporate objectives. Key responsibilities are detailed below:
Strategic Leadership & P&L Management
- Assume full P&L responsibility for the Charlotte facility, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Drive top-line growth and bottom-line profitability through strategic planning and meticulous execution.
- Develop and implement comprehensive annual business plans and long-range strategic initiatives that align with corporate goals for growth, market share, and profitability.
- Analyze financial statements, key performance indicators (KPIs), and market trends to make informed, data-driven decisions. Identify and mitigate financial risks while capitalizing on opportunities for cost reduction and revenue enhancement.
- Lead the capital expenditure (CapEx) planning process, creating compelling business cases for investments in new technology, equipment, and facility upgrades to enhance capacity, efficiency, and capabilities.
Operations & Manufacturing Excellence
- Provide ultimate oversight for all plant operations, including flexographic printing, lamination, converting, slitting, and logistics. Ensure production schedules are met with a focus on maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement by deploying Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies. Drive initiatives to improve key operational metrics such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), scrap rates, on-time delivery, and lead times.
- Direct and coordinate activities across all operational departments, including Production, Maintenance, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality Assurance, to ensure seamless collaboration and workflow.
- Oversee the facility’s supply chain function, including procurement, inventory management, and logistics, to ensure a reliable supply of raw materials and efficient distribution of finished goods.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing senior leadership team. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and results-driven management culture.
- Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that attracts, retains, and motivates top talent at all levels of the organization.
- Implement robust performance management processes, provide regular feedback and coaching, and establish clear development paths for employees to support succession planning and career growth.
- Champion effective communication throughout the facility, ensuring that all team members are informed of company goals, performance, and strategic direction.
Safety, Quality, & Compliance
- Champion a world-class safety culture, ensuring the facility adheres to all Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) regulations and company policies. Drive towards a zero-incident workplace through proactive safety programs, training, and audits.
- Uphold the highest standards of product quality. Ensure the Quality Management System (QMS) is effective and that the facility maintains all necessary certifications (e.g., SQF, BRC, ISO).
- Guarantee compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to manufacturing, labor, and environmental standards.
- Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies and lead the response to any internal or external audits.
Commercial & Customer Focus
- Partner closely with the sales and business development teams to support commercial strategies, drive customer satisfaction, and identify opportunities for growth with new and existing clients.
- Engage with key customers to build strong relationships, understand their needs, and ensure the facility is delivering exceptional value and service.
- Stay abreast of market conditions, competitor activities, and industry trends to inform strategic decision-making and maintain a competitive edge.
Requirements for the General Manager | Flexible Packaging | Charlotte, NC
We are seeking a seasoned executive with a proven history of success in a similar manufacturing leadership role. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years of direct P&L management experience as a Plant Manager, General Manager, or Director of Operations.
Industry Expertise
Significant experience within the flexible packaging industry is essential. A strong technical understanding of converting processes such as flexographic/rotogravure printing, adhesive and extrusion lamination, pouching, and slitting is required.
Financial Acumen
Demonstrated ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex financial documents and manage a multi-million dollar P&L. Strong background in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
Lean/Continuous Improvement
Formal training and a proven track record of successfully implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement principles to drive tangible results in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills. The ability to inspire, motivate, and influence a diverse workforce is critical. Must be a servant leader who can effectively coach and mentor direct reports.
Strategic Mindset
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Capable of developing a clear vision for the future and translating it into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.
Technical Proficiency
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and experienced with modern ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Competitive Executive Compensation
An attractive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus/incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate to move to the vibrant Charlotte, NC area.
Professional Development
A commitment to your growth with opportunities for continued education, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences.
Additional Perks
Life insurance, disability coverage, and other executive-level benefits.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this critical General Manager position. We specialize in connecting top-tier talent with leading companies in the manufacturing sector. If you possess the required experience and leadership qualities to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and accomplishments. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Packaging & Plastics practice area. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
