General Manager (SC)

Description

Oversee the operations of Smith-Columbia in alignment with the company's policies, goals, and objectives as determined by the CEO and/or board of directors. Collaborate with the CEO to develop and execute a long-term strategic vision for the organization, with a focus on manufacturing and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and strategically directs both daily operations and long-term initiatives across all plant departments, with primary emphasis on manufacturing processes. Collaborates closely with accounting and human resources to drive operational excellence and achieve organizational objectives.
• Formulates operating plans, secures approval for company budgets, and ensures adherence to these plans, with particular attention to manufacturing efficiency and output.
• Achieves the company's production targets, quality standards, and revenue goals through effective manufacturing processes and sales programs. Responsible for profit and loss.
• Maintains a competitive market position by meeting customer service and quality expectations. Ensures compliance with industry and internal quality and performance standards. Monitors production progress for timely delivery and installation.
• Achieves a competitive cost structure through effective production planning, lean manufacturing practices, performance standards, and controls. Provides leadership and direction for continuous improvement and problem-solving in the manufacturing environment.
• Establishes and upgrades systems to provide relevant, meaningful, accurate, and timely financial, cost, and production data for effective company management. Monitors and analyzes performance and cost data to ensure targets are met and cost-saving opportunities are identified. Ensures timely handling of accounting functions, receivables, payables, payroll, and company performance reporting.
• Oversees the preservation of company assets through proper maintenance plans, plant and equipment upgrades, environmental compliance, and capital planning, with a focus on manufacturing facilities and equipment.
• Preserves technological leadership through continuous development of the manufacturing team, effective project management, and optimum product design, manufacturing, and application techniques. Maintains active participation in industry associations and supports process innovation and improvement.
• Cultivates a constructive industrial relations environment where employees can contribute to their full potential, including direct hiring, training, and long-term staff development; establishing individual and team accountability; implementing programs to promote employee involvement, teamwork, and cooperation; and providing a safe, clean work environment that promotes safety awareness, particularly in manufacturing areas.
• Maintains effective communication with the CEO, keeping them informed of the business status and any matters requiring their attention, especially regarding manufacturing operations and performance.
• As a member of the Executive team, actively participates in and assists the CEO and/or Board of Directors in developing and implementing plans to ensure the company's long-term growth and success, such as establishing a long-term vision and policies, personnel programs, and compensation plans, with a focus on manufacturing strategy.

Qualifications

• Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Advanced degree (MBA, MS in Manufacturing Management, etc.) preferred.
• Experience
  • 10 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing organization.
  • Proven track record of driving production efficiency, quality improvement, profitability, and operational excellence.
  • Demonstrated success in strategic planning, and organizational development within manufacturing operations.
• Skills and Competencies
  • Strong business acumen and financial management skills, particularly in manufacturing contexts.
  • Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building abilities.
  • Proven problem-solving, decision-making, and critical thinking skills in complex manufacturing environments.
  • Expertise in lean manufacturing principles, quality management systems, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Proficient in using data analytics, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
  • Thorough understanding of manufacturing regulations, standards, and best practices.
  • Ability to foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and safety in a manufacturing setting.
  • Strategic mindset with the vision to guide the company's long-term growth and manufacturing capabilities.
• Certifications/Licenses
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification preferred.
  • Relevant industry-specific certifications (e.g., APICS CSCP, CPIM) a plus.
  • OSHA certification in safety management beneficial.