General Manager - Boat Manufacturing Plant

Location: Indiana (not a remote opportunity, relocation assistance available)

Tom Cassidy, Senior Marine Industry Recruiter, Tom@v20recruiting.com, 262-397-8980

Job Summary:

We are seeking a strategic and hands-on General Manager to lead a boat manufacturing plant in Indiana. The General Manager will oversee daily operations, ensure the highest levels of quality and craftsmanship, and drive operational efficiency while focusing on customer satisfaction and the continuous improvement of our manufacturing processes. This role requires a collaborative leader with extensive manufacturing experience in the marine or recreational vehicle industry, a deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles, and a commitment to developing and leading a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plant Operations Management: Oversee and coordinate all aspects of plant operations, including production, quality, safety, maintenance, and inventory. Ensure that production goals align with the company's commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.
• Production Quality: Maintain and elevate product standards by implementing rigorous quality control processes and working closely with production teams to ensure that each boat meets or exceeds customer expectations in durability, comfort, and style.
• Operational Efficiency: Lead initiatives to improve plant efficiency and reduce production costs through lean manufacturing, waste reduction, and process optimization without compromising quality.
• Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, train, and mentor plant staff, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous learning. Develop and implement training programs focused on skill enhancement and operational excellence.
• Safety & Compliance: Ensure compliance with all regulatory, safety, and environmental standards. Implement and monitor safety programs to create a safe working environment for all employees.
• Warranty Management: Collaborate with the quality assurance and customer service teams to address warranty issues promptly, ensuring that customer concerns are handled in-house to enhance brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
• Financial Management: Manage plant budgets, control operating expenses, and meet financial performance targets. Work closely with the finance team to forecast budget needs and monitor expenditures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or a related field; an advanced degree is a plus.
• 10+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 5 years in a senior management role in the marine, recreational vehicle, or similar industry.
• Proven success in a plant management or operations leadership role, demonstrating a track record of quality, safety, and operational improvements.
• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices.
• Financial acumen and experience managing plant budgets and P&L responsibilities.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills with a talent for team-building and employee engagement.
• Ability to adapt and problem-solve in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Compensation:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package.
• Relocation assistance is available.