Plant Manager

Plant Manager

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie, TimberTech, AZEK Exteriors, Versatex, fermacell, and StruXure. With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

The Plant Manager is a senior operational leader responsible for directing and optimizing the daily operations of a larger, more complex, or multi-line manufacturing facility. This role oversees multiple layers of leadershipincluding supervisors, managers, engineers, and production teamsand is accountable for strategic planning, operational excellence, financial performance, and culture development within the plant. A Plant Manager not only ensures efficient and safe production but also drives long-term improvements, influences cross-functional initiatives, and aligns plant operations with broader organizational strategies. Individuals in this role exhibit exceptional leadership, advanced operational expertise, and high-level decision-making abilities. They are expected to think proactively, mentor future leaders, and consistently deliver world-class operational outcomes.

What You'll Do:

Operational Leadership & Strategic Management

• Oversee complex or high-volume manufacturing operations, ensuring consistent performance across multiple production areas.
• Develop multi-year operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across quality, safety, production, and cost-efficiency.
• Drive Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence frameworks throughout the plant.

Production & Efficiency Management

• Plan and manage production capacity, asset utilization, and throughput to meet or exceed organizational targets.
• Monitor and improve key performance indicators (KPIs): OEE, scrap/rework, downtime, labor efficiency, and cost per unit.
• Implement advanced data-driven processes to optimize workflow, reduce waste, and maximize resource allocation.

Financial & Budget Accountability

• Develop, maintain, and forecast annual operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost-control plans.
• Conduct financial analysis to improve margins, reduce costs, and support strategic investment decisions.
• Ensure high-value ROI on equipment, technology upgrades, and process improvements.

Compliance, Safety & Quality

• Ensure strict adherence to all regulatory standards (OSHA, EPA, ISO, etc.).
• Champion a strong safety culture, owning all plant-level EHS performance.
• Oversee quality management systems and ensure consistency with certification and industry standards.

Organizational & Talent Leadership

• Manage a larger leadership structure including supervisors, operations managers, engineering teams, and support staff.
• Develop managerial talent, succession plans, and high-performance teams.
• Coach and mentor direct reports and emerging leaders to enhance operational capability and career growth.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and Corporate Leadership to drive business initiatives.
• Support new product introductions, plant expansions, and technology integrations.
• Serve as a key voice in corporate initiatives affecting operations, safety, quality, and workforce development.

Communication & Reporting

• Deliver high-impact operational reports and presentations to senior executives.
• Communicate plant performance, risks, and opportunities transparently.
• Build trust and alignment across all levels of the organizationfrom floor team members to executive leadership.

What You'll Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or related field (required).
• MBA or advanced degree (preferred).
• Typically requires 710+ years in manufacturing operations, including: 35 years in plant leadership or multi-department management, significant experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. Experience managing large-scale operations, multiple production lines, or a facility with complex product workflows.

What You'll Receive:

At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.

• Comprehensive low-cost co-pay Health Insurance; medical, dental, prescription, and vision insurance benefits for every 30+ hour full-time employee. Insurance starts on day one!
• 401(k) Retirement plan that will match 100% of employees saved dollars up to the first 6% of your salary
• Paid holidays, paid vacation including Jury Duty and bereavement leave
• Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program. Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Community Involvement & Sustainable Solutions
• Click here to learn more about our benefits

Apply now and come "home" to Hardie!

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law. James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies. The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.