Plant Manager – Job Description
About the Role
Formations Inc. is seeking a hands-on, people-focused Plant Manager to oversee daily manufacturing operations, lead our production team, and drive performance across safety, quality, productivity, and cost management.
This role is ideal for a manufacturing leader who understands the importance of efficient production, clear communication, employee development, and continuous improvement. You’ll take ownership of plant performance while learning our products and processes before implementing changes that support future growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Plant Operations: Oversee daily production, workflow, equipment performance, and scheduling to meet production targets and delivery commitments.
- People Leadership: Lead, coach, and develop employees and supervisors, providing clear expectations, training, and performance feedback.
- Quality & Customer Satisfaction: Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards while addressing defects, incomplete orders, and operational issues.
- Process Improvement: Review and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), strengthen employee training, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
- Financial Performance: Manage the plant budget, monitor labour and material costs, track key performance indicators, and support forecasting and equipment investment decisions.
- Safety & Compliance: Promote a safe work environment, ensure procedures are followed, and maintain compliance with applicable safety requirements.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Supply Chain, Quality Control, Sales, Finance, and senior leadership to support business objectives and customer needs.
Qualifications
- At least 5 years of progressive experience in manufacturing, production, or operations leadership.
- Experience leading teams in a manufacturing environment; woodworking, doors, cabinetry, millwork, metal fabrication, or machine shop experience is an asset.
- Strong understanding of production workflows, equipment, quality standards, and operational efficiency.
- Experience with employee development, SOPs, and continuous improvement.
- Financial awareness, including labour costs, budgets, and production performance; budgeting and forecasting experience is an asset.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn new systems and software.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, organization, and decision-making skills.
- A hands-on leadership style that values employee input, accountability, and teamwork.
What Success Looks Like
- Building a strong understanding of Formations’ products, people, and manufacturing processes.
- Developing a well-trained, accountable team that follows consistent procedures.
- Improving production efficiency, quality, and delivery performance while managing costs.
- Supporting the plant’s growth through practical, sustainable process improvements.
Living Our Core Values
At Formations, our values guide how we work, support one another, and contribute to our shared success.
- Citizenship: We look beyond our individual responsibilities, support our teammates, and understand how our work impacts our customers and the broader business.
- Tenacity: We stay focused, work through challenges, and remain committed to getting the job done safely and effectively.
- Resourcefulness: We find practical solutions, adapt to changing priorities, and make the most of the tools and resources available to us.
We’re looking for someone who brings these values to the workplace every day.
Why Formations?
- Be part of a forward-thinking company committed to growth and knowledge sharing.
- Enjoy 100% company-sponsored health and dental benefits and access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Experience recognition programs that celebrate team loyalty, demonstration of core values, and contributions to success. Benefit from a flexible benefits program tailored to your needs, including:
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Personal Spending Account (PSA)
- RRSP contribution
