Packaging Manager

The Packaging Manager is responsible for leading the safe, efficient, and consistent operation of the Packaging Department, including canning, bottling, kegging, variety packaging, and repack operations. This position provides leadership and direction to the Assistant Packaging Manager, Packaging Supervisors, Leads, and Packaging Operators while driving employee development, operational excellence, safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

The Packaging Manager is accountable for executing the approved production schedule, developing frontline leadership, improving equipment reliability, achieving department performance goals, and building a highly skilled, cross-trained workforce. This role partners closely with the Supply Chain Manager, Packaging Planner, Brewing, Quality Assurance, Maintenance, Human Resources, and other departments to ensure operational success.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop Packaging Supervisors, Leads, and Packaging employees while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Direct daily packaging operations across canning, bottling, kegging, variety packaging, and repack activities to safely meet production goals.
• Execute the production schedule in partnership with the Packaging Planner and Supply Chain team while adjusting staffing and resources to meet business needs.
• Monitor departmental performance through key metrics including safety, quality, labor efficiency, downtime, and schedule attainment.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, GMPs, food safety standards, and company quality requirements.
• Develop employee capabilities through structured training, cross-training, and performance coaching.
• Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, onboarding, performance management, succession planning, and employee relations.
• Collaborate with Engineering & Maintenance to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and support capital improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate production documentation, operational records, and department reporting.
• Develop and manage the Packaging Department budget while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and control costs.
• Build effective working relationships across Brewing, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and Quality to ensure smooth production flow.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that improve productivity, quality, safety, and employee engagement.