Role Overview for Plant Manager (Milling) – Kansas City, MO
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations, is thrilled to announce a pivotal opportunity for an experienced and dynamic Plant Manager (Milling) in Kansas City, MO. Our esteemed client, a recognized leader in the milling industry with a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence, is seeking a visionary leader to oversee all aspects of their state-of-the-art milling facility. This role is not merely a management position; it is a strategic leadership opportunity to drive significant impact, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality products that meet stringent industry standards.
As the Plant Manager, you will be the driving force behind the operational success of the Kansas City plant. You will be entrusted with the full scope of plant operations, from production and maintenance to quality control, safety, and team development. This position demands a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of optimizing processes, managing P&L, and cultivating a high-performance work environment.
You will be instrumental in translating company-wide objectives into tangible operational strategies, ensuring the plant operates at peak efficiency while adhering to the highest standards of safety and product quality. This is an exceptional chance to join a forward-thinking organization where your leadership will directly contribute to the company’s growth and market position. If you possess a proven track record of success in milling operations and are ready to take on a challenging yet rewarding role in a vibrant city, we encourage you to explore this outstanding career prospect.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager (Milling) – Kansas City, MO
Operational Leadership & Efficiency
Direct and manage all plant operations, including production, processing, maintenance, quality control, shipping, and receiving. Optimize production schedules, processes, and resource allocation to maximize output, minimize waste, and ensure timely delivery of products. Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement in efficiency and productivity.
P&L Management & Financial Oversight
Full accountability for the plant’s profit and loss (P&L) statement. Develop, manage, and adhere to operational budgets, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement strategies to improve profitability and financial performance. Conduct regular financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic decision-making.
Safety & Environmental Compliance
Champion a robust safety culture, ensuring strict adherence to all OSHA, FDA, HACCP, GFSI, and environmental regulations. Implement and enforce comprehensive safety programs, conduct regular safety audits, lead incident investigations, and provide ongoing safety training to all personnel. Maintain an unwavering commitment to a safe working environment.
Quality Assurance & Food Safety
Oversee and enhance quality control programs to ensure all milled products meet or exceed internal and external specifications, including customer requirements and regulatory standards. Implement and maintain robust food safety systems (e.g., GFSI standards like BRC or SQF) and ensure compliance with all relevant food safety legislation.
Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization
Lead and promote the adoption of continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and 5S. Drive initiatives focused on waste reduction, process optimization, energy efficiency, and overall operational excellence. Foster an environment where all employees are encouraged to identify and implement improvements.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, hire, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing and engaged team across all departments. Foster a positive, collaborative, and empowering work environment. Conduct performance reviews, set clear goals, and provide opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
Maintenance & Reliability
Oversee the planning and execution of comprehensive preventative and predictive maintenance programs for all milling equipment and plant infrastructure. Minimize downtime, extend asset life, and ensure operational reliability. Manage capital projects for equipment upgrades, facility expansions, and technological advancements.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Collaborate closely with supply chain, procurement, and logistics teams to ensure optimal raw material flow, inventory levels, and efficient distribution of finished products. Optimize warehouse operations and inventory accuracy to support production demands and reduce carrying costs.
Strategic Planning & Execution
Contribute to the development of the company’s overall strategic plan. Develop and execute plant-specific strategic goals and objectives that align with broader business initiatives, focusing on long-term growth, sustainability, and market competitiveness.
Stakeholder Relations
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal departments (sales, R&D, HR, finance) and external stakeholders (suppliers, customers, regulatory agencies, local community). Represent the company professionally in all interactions.
Requirements for the Plant Manager (Milling) – Kansas City, MO
To be considered for this critical leadership role, candidates must demonstrate a robust combination of education, experience, and leadership capabilities:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial), Food Science, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a closely related field is required. An MBA or an advanced degree is highly preferred and will be a significant advantage.
Extensive Industry Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 7-10 years specifically in a Plant Manager, General Manager, or similar senior operational leadership role within the milling, grain processing, food & beverage, or agri-business industries. Direct experience with flour milling, feed milling, or similar dry ingredient processing is essential.
Technical Expertise
Deep and comprehensive understanding of milling processes, equipment, and technology. Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (FDA, HACCP, FSMA, GFSI standards like BRC, SQF, FSSC 22000). Proficiency with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
Leadership & People Management
Proven ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop large, diverse teams in a manufacturing environment. Exceptional communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and negotiation skills. Demonstrated success in building a positive and productive organizational culture.
Financial Acumen
Strong P&L management experience, including budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, capital expenditure planning, and inventory management. Ability to interpret financial statements and make data-driven decisions to improve profitability.
Continuous Improvement Mindset
A track record of successfully implementing and sustaining Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies to drive operational efficiencies and waste reduction. Certification in Lean or Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt) is highly desirable.
Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills
Superior analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a methodical approach to identifying root causes and implementing effective, sustainable solutions.
Adaptability & Resilience
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and sometimes demanding environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing business needs.
Regulatory Knowledge
Thorough understanding of environmental health and safety (EHS) regulations, quality management systems, and labor laws relevant to manufacturing.
Location Commitment
Willingness and ability to live and work full-time in the Kansas City, MO metropolitan area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client understands the value of their leadership team and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package designed to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. As the Plant Manager (Milling) in Kansas City, MO, you will be eligible for:
Competitive Compensation
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards, coupled with a robust performance-based bonus structure that rewards success and contributions to the company’s financial goals.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Generous health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, ensuring access to quality healthcare. Includes options for health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Retirement Planning
A strong 401(k) retirement savings plan with a substantial company match, helping you build financial security for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous allocation of paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, promoting work-life balance and personal well-being.
Life & Disability Insurance
Company-paid life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage, providing peace of mind and financial protection.
Professional Development
Significant opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement. This includes access to industry conferences, specialized training programs, and leadership development initiatives.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates relocating to the Kansas City area, comprehensive relocation assistance may be provided to ensure a smooth transition.
Dynamic Work Environment
The chance to work in a challenging yet supportive and collaborative environment within a company that values innovation, operational excellence, and employee empowerment.
Impactful Role
An opportunity to make a significant, tangible impact on the success and strategic direction of a leading organization in the milling sector.
Employee Wellness Programs
Access to various wellness programs and initiatives designed to support your overall health and well-being.
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished and results-oriented Plant Manager with a passion for operational excellence in the milling industry, JRG Partners invites you to take the next step in your career. This is a highly strategic role with a leading organization, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and impact.
To express your interest and be considered for the Plant Manager (Milling) – Kansas City, MO position, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Your cover letter should highlight your leadership philosophy, your achievements in optimizing milling operations, and your commitment to safety and quality.
Please apply directly through our confidential portal or send your application to our dedicated recruitment team. We look forward to reviewing your qualifications and discussing how your expertise can contribute to our client’s continued success.
JRG Partners is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages all qualified candidates to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer.
Learn more about our executive search services for operational roles at JRG Partners Manufacturing & Operations Executive Search.
