Plant Manager

JOB TITLE: Plant Manager

FUNCTION: Operations (Hilbert)                      

REPORTS TO: Vice President Of Operations

LOCATION: Hilbert, Wisconsin

Ornua (meaning “new gold”) is Ireland’s largest exporter of Irish dairy products, proudly bringing the unique taste of Irish dairy to the world since 1961.

Are you an experienced Operations Leader looking for the challenge of taking a mission driven organization to its next level of success?

Ornua is actively seeking a Plant Manager to join the Ornua Family as we continue our growth trajectory. This position will play a key role in ensuring safety, product quality, food safety, company culture/values, operational performance, environmental health and safety compliance and all local, state and federal standards. Responsibilities also include recruiting, hiring, and training personnel and facility/physical plant up-keep and capital improvements.  In addition, the Plant Manager will be responsible for annual budget planning and execution. This position will work closely with the site-wide production team to increase productivity and profitability.

WHY THIS ROLE IS VALUABLE

As Plant Manager, you’ll take full ownership of site operations by driving efficiency, quality, safety, and innovation while building a high-performing team. Your leadership will strengthen our operations, support a culture of continuous improvement, and help Ornua deliver world-class dairy products enjoyed by consumers worldwide. This role will be responsible for the following: 

• Lead Operations: Oversee daily plant activities to ensure safety, quality, and productivity.
• Drive Strategy: Develop and execute operational plans and budgets aligned with business goals.
• Optimize Performance: Monitor KPIs, control costs, and implement systems to maximize efficiency.
• Ensure Compliance: Maintain food safety standards (BRC, HACCP) and regulatory requirements.
• Manage People: Partner with HR to manage workforce requirements, like recruiting, training, and engaging employees as well as providing coaching and performance feedback. 
• Collaborate & Innovate: Work with Quality, EHS, and R&D teams to improve processes and support new product development.
• Maintain Facilities: Ensure plant infrastructure, equipment, and sanitation standards are upheld.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills to influence and inspire at all levels.
• Advanced analytical and organizational abilities to drive operational excellence.
• Proven capability to craft professional reports, presentations, and business communications.
• Collaborative mindset with a track record of building strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Strong problem-solving skills: define issues, analyze data, and implement effective solutions.
• Excellent time management and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment.
• Expertise in document control and maintaining accurate records.
• Commitment to confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital tools for operational efficiency.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a focus on quality and compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership in team building, coaching, and developing talent.
• Ability to motivate and engage employees to achieve shared goals and continuous improvement.

EDUCTATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in related field or 5 years plant/general management experience in a manufacturing environment directly supervising a production work force preferably with food companies.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food production, with direct supervision of production teams.
• Proven ability to build a strong safety culture and engage employees at all levels.
• Hands-on experience with budgeting, cost control, and operational performance management.
• Solid understanding of food safety standards (BRC, HACCP) and regulatory compliance, including state and federal requirements for dairy/cheese production.
• Skilled in workforce management, including interviewing, hiring, retention, and performance management.

WHY ORNUA?

Ornua is a purpose-driven, values-led co-operative creating value for Irish dairy farming families through our global operations. With 10 business units, 16 production facilities, and in-market teams across the world, we operate through two divisions — Ornua Foods, which markets our iconic consumer brands including Kerrygold and Pilgrims Choice, and Ornua Ingredients, which provides innovative, customized dairy ingredient solutions to our customers.

• Our Values lie at the core of everything we do. Our five values encourage us to Seek and Embrace New Ideas, Make It Happen, Be Our True Selves, Show You Care, and Achieve Great Things Together.
• We invest in our people and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Career progression opportunities, including global mobility.
• Comprehensive benefits with region-specific offerings.

TOTAL REWARDS 

Total Rewards at Ornua Ingredients North America will include a competitive salary and annual bonus scheme for both production and non production employees. The following are a list of other benefits you can avail of: low employee contribution for Medical, Vision and Dental benefits cover; 401k; Paid Time Off; Maternity Leave (20 weeks); Parental Leave; Reward & Recognition program; Volunteering opportunities; Long Service Awards.

Ornua Ingredients North America is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will be provided with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or genetic information.  Ornua is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact Ornua People Services at 833-450-2385 or peopleservicesus@ornua.com.