Plant Manager - Integrated Paper and Converting Operations

Executive Leadership Opportunity in Paper Manufacturing

A market-leading manufacturer of coated recycled paperboard (CRB) and finished converted products is seeking an accomplished Plant Manager to take full operational control of its integrated facilities in Peru, Indiana.

This high-impact role reports directly to the VP of Mill Operations and oversees two paper machines (CRB) and a substantial unionized hourly workforce. We are looking for a decisive, performance-driven leader with a deep commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence in the paper industry.

Key Responsibilities and Impact

Operational Command

Direct daily operations of both the paper mill and converting facilities, ensuring world-class performance in safety, product quality, and overall productivity.

Team Development : Lead, mentor, and manage multi-shift teams across production, maintenance, and support functions, fostering a culture of accountability and growth.

Continuous Improvement

Champion operational excellence (OPEX) and continuous improvement initiatives, driving measurable gains in efficiency, yield, and cost structure.

Production & Quality

Execute demanding production plans, ensuring timely delivery and strict adherence to all product quality specifications.

Compliance

Implement, monitor, and sustain best-in-class safety and environmental programs, ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Performance Management

Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs)—including production rates, energy consumption, waste, and financial performance—and implement proactive corrective actions.

Asset Reliability

Partner with Engineering and Reliability teams to maximize asset uptime, optimize maintenance practices, and reduce operational waste.

Strategic Planning

Develop comprehensive budgets, financial forecasts, and capital project proposals to support long-term growth and facility modernization.

Union Relations

Effectively manage labor relations, ensuring productive collaboration with the unionized workforce.

Essential Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Paper Science, Chemical / Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline is required.

Experience

Ten (10) or more years of hands-on experience in paper manufacturing, including at least three (3) years in a senior leadership or Plant Manager role.

Technical Acumen : Strong working knowledge of paper machine operations is essential; experience with Coated Recycled Paperboard (CRB) is highly preferred.

Leadership

Proven ability to successfully lead and manage a union manufacturing workforce.

Process Improvement : Demonstrated track record of implementing successful OPEX / continuous improvement programs and initiatives.

Business Skills : Excellent financial and analytical acumen, with a commitment to data-driven decision-making.

Culture

Deep personal commitment to safety, sustainability, and operational discipline.

Why Join Us

Compensation

Highly competitive base salary ($175K – $220K) plus an attractive annual bonus opportunity.

Comprehensive Benefits

Robust health, dental, and vision packages, along with a strong 401(k) retirement program.

Support

Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Advancement

Executive-level visibility and a clear path for professional advancement within a growing, market-leading organization.

If you are an experienced mill leader ready to take full ownership of a key integrated operation and drive measurable, sustainable performance, connect with us.

Work Authorization :

Applicants must have valid, independent authorization to work in the United States.

This position does not offer, support, or accept any form of sponsorship—whether employer, third-party, future, contingent, transfer, or otherwise.

Candidates must be able to work for any employer in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship of any kind.

Work authorization will be verified, and misrepresentation will result in immediate removal from consideration.