Role Overview for VP, Plant Management with a Heavy Equipment Manufacturer – Peoria, IL
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the heavy equipment manufacturing sector to identify a transformative Vice President of Plant Management. Based in the industrial heartland of Peoria, IL, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned operations professional to take the helm of a large-scale, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
Our client is renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and durability, producing machinery that builds the world’s infrastructure. The VP of Plant Management will be the strategic linchpin responsible for driving operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the facility not only meets but exceeds its production, safety, quality, and financial targets.
This individual will be a key member of the executive team, shaping the future of manufacturing operations and contributing directly to the company’s long-term growth and profitability. We are seeking a dynamic, results-oriented leader with a proven track record of managing complex manufacturing environments, inspiring high-performing teams, and implementing best-in-class operational strategies.
If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for world-class manufacturing and the leadership acumen to steer a major industrial plant toward unprecedented success, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Plant Management with a Heavy Equipment Manufacturer – Peoria, IL
The Vice President of Plant Management will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, overseeing all aspects of the Peoria facility’s operations. Success in this role requires a blend of strategic vision and hands-on operational leadership.
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Develop and execute a comprehensive plant-level strategy that aligns with corporate objectives, focusing on long-term growth, profitability, and market leadership.
- Champion a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement, setting the standard for operational excellence across all departments.
- Lead the annual operating plan (AOP) and budget process for the facility, ensuring alignment with financial goals and strategic initiatives.
- Direct and manage all capital expenditure (CapEx) projects, from conception and justification to implementation and commissioning, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the plant and corporate headquarters, effectively communicating performance, challenges, and strategic recommendations.
Operational & Production Management
- Direct all manufacturing activities to ensure products are produced on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with the highest quality standards.
- Implement and refine advanced manufacturing systems and processes, leveraging data and technology to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and improve productivity.
- Champion the adoption of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the plant.
- Oversee the entire supply chain and logistics function within the plant, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and material flow, to ensure seamless production.
- Ensure robust maintenance programs (preventive, predictive) are in place to maximize equipment uptime, reliability, and lifespan.
Financial & Performance Management
- Assume full P&L responsibility for the Peoria plant, meticulously managing costs, overhead, and margins to achieve profitability targets.
- Develop, monitor, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) across safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC) to drive performance and accountability.
- Prepare and present regular performance reports to the executive leadership team, providing insightful analysis and actionable recommendations.
- Identify and execute cost-saving initiatives and efficiency improvements without compromising quality or safety.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber plant leadership team, including directors and managers of Production, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Maintenance.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging work environment that promotes collaboration, innovation, and employee morale.
- Implement robust talent management and succession planning strategies to build a strong leadership pipeline and ensure organizational capability.
- Oversee labor relations, ensuring a constructive and collaborative relationship with the workforce and any union representatives.
Quality, Safety, & Compliance
- Uphold and enforce the highest standards of workplace safety, ensuring compliance with all OSHA and environmental regulations. Champion a zero-incident safety culture.
- Guarantee that all products manufactured meet or exceed stringent internal and external quality standards, including any ISO or industry-specific certifications.
- Ensure the facility operates in full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
Requirements for the VP, Plant Management with a Heavy Equipment Manufacturer – Peoria, IL
The ideal candidate will be a proven executive with extensive experience in leading large-scale manufacturing operations within a complex, capital-intensive industry.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 7-10 years in a senior plant leadership role (e.g., Plant Manager, Director of Operations) with full P&L responsibility.
- Direct experience in heavy equipment, automotive, aerospace, or a similar heavy industrial manufacturing sector involving complex assembly and fabrication is essential.
- Demonstrated success in leading large teams (500+ employees) in both union and non-union environments.
Technical & Operational Skills
- Expert-level knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies. Black Belt certification is a strong asset.
- Deep understanding of modern manufacturing processes, including welding, fabrication, machining, assembly, and paint/finishing.
- Strong financial acumen with proven experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and complex P&L statements.
- Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
- Solid understanding of supply chain management, quality control systems (ISO 9001), and EHS regulations.
Leadership Competencies
- Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and influence at all levels of the organization.
- Superior strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of presenting complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
- A results-driven mindset with a relentless focus on achieving and exceeding goals.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to ethical leadership.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
- Competitive Base Salary
- Lucrative Annual Performance-Based Bonus Program
- Long-Term Incentive Plan (Equity/Stock Options)
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Generous 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
- Executive-level Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Package
- Relocation Assistance Package for qualified candidates
- Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
- Professional Development and Continuing Education Support
- Access to Employee Wellness Programs
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information on our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Industrial & Manufacturing practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a significant impact on our client’s future success.
