Regional Plant Operations Manager - Manufacturing

Regional Operations Manager – Protective Packaging
Location: Chicago, IL
Oversight: Chicago IL, Toronto, ON, Carlstadt, NJ

About the Role
IPG is seeking a results-driven Regional Operations Manager to lead operations across a portion of our Protective Packaging division. This role will provide strategic and operational leadership across three manufacturing sites and drive performance through strong safety practices, disciplined processes, and continuous improvement.
This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for aligning regional operations with business objectives while fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and execute regional strategy to achieve operational, financial, and safety objectives
Drive productivity improvements, cost optimization, and waste reduction initiatives across all sites
Champion world-class safety standards and ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements
Partner with Plant Managers and business leaders to resolve operational challenges and optimize performance
Oversee staffing strategy, organizational effectiveness, and succession planning for the region
Lead the implementation of standardized systems, including lean manufacturing and performance systems (e.g., IPG Performance System)
Monitor financial performance, including P&L, and ensure alignment with budget targets
Analyze and drive improvements using key operational metrics and KPIs
Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture across all sites
Ensure consistent execution of company policies, procedures, and operational standards

What You Bring

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field
experience in a manufacturing environment
Demonstrated experience driving operational excellence and performance systems (Lean, TPS, or similar)
Strong background in safety leadership and process discipline
Experience leading multi-site operations and geographically dispersed teams
Proven ability to influence leaders, develop teams, and drive accountability
Strong financial acumen, including P&L management
Experience in unionized environments is a plus

What Sets You Apart

You bring operational rigor from organizations known for best-in-class safety and disciplined processes
You are a strategic thinker who can translate vision into execution across multiple sites
You thrive in complex environments and excel at aligning teams toward common goals
You are comfortable challenging the status quo and driving measurable change