Plant Manager

At Forte Opening Solutions, we don't just manufacture doors; we create pathways to possibilities. We empower our employees to shape the future of our industry. Join a team where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology, and where your ideas can open new doors. Together, we build not just products, but a culture of excellence and collaboration. 

Position Summary

We are seeking a results-driven Plant Manager to lead our manufacturing operations with a strong emphasis on people leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. This role oversees all plant activities over two locations Birchwood WI & Thorp WI through a team of managers, supervisors, and team leads, ensuring safe operations, high-quality output, and on-time delivery. The ideal candidate is a servant leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, inspires teams, and drives performance through Lean principles and strategic collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Culture

• Champion a culture of safety, accountability, and engagement across all levels of the plant
• Lead, coach, and develop plant leadership and production teams through clear communication, performance feedback, and professional development
• Foster strong cross-functional relationships with Sales, Finance, and other divisional plant managers to align on goals and share best practices
• Promote a customer-focused growth approach that reinforces dedication to the success and satisfaction of our customers, today and tomorrow

Operations & Continuous Improvement

• Oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, quality standards, and customer expectations
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives to improve safety, reduce costs, shorten lead times, and enhance customer satisfaction
• Monitor plant KPIs and implement corrective actions to ensure consistent performance and operational excellence

Strategic Execution & Financial Stewardship

• Own full P&L responsibility for the plant; manage cost structure and drive productivity initiatives to offset inflation and support growth
• Collaborate with Finance, Sales, and Marketing to align operational capabilities with business objectives
• Evaluate capital investments and staffing decisions with sound financial acumen

Compliance & Standardization

• Ensure 100% compliance with safety policies, environmental regulations, and company procedures
• Establish and maintain standardized work processes across locations in partnership with divisional plant managers
• Maintain functional knowledge of Quality Management Systems and Supply Chain operations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, or related field
• 8+ years of progressive operations leadership in a manufacturing environment
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Strong communication, mentoring, and team-building skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead through change and prioritize in a dynamic environment
• Financial acumen with prior P&L ownership
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook; fast and accurate data entry skills
• Passion for employee engagement and a hands-on leadership style

What We’re Looking For

A servant leader who:

• Leads with integrity and empathy
• Builds strong, empowered teams
• Thrives on solving problems and driving results
• Spends time on the floor, listening and leading by example
• Brings energy, accountability, and a customer-first mindset