Overview
Modine is a global company with more than 100 years of experience in thermal management, aiming to improve air quality and conserve natural resources. We employ more than 13,000 people worldwide and operate in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit
Position Description
We are seeking a hands-on and strategic Plant Manager to lead the start-up and long-term operations of a new manufacturing facility producing infrastructure products for data centers. This role will help stand up a new plant from the ground up, set the tone for operational excellence, build a high-performing team, and create a culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement. The Plant Manager will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including production, maintenance, quality, and safety, and will collaborate with the executive team and cross-functional leaders to ensure successful ramp-up and ongoing scalability of the operation.
Travel requirements for this role begin at 50% (travel to Calgary, Canada twice per month) and decrease to 10% as the Franklin, WI plant ramps up to production by the end of calendar 2025. After the Franklin plant is occupied, intermittent travel will be required to meet with customers, suppliers, other facilities, and Regional and Corporate meetings.
Key Responsibilities
- Start-Up Execution and Leadership: Lead the start-up of a new manufacturing facility, including equipment installation, staffing, operational readiness, and initial production launch.
- Start-Up Planning: Develop and execute a comprehensive plant start-up plan aligned with business objectives and production targets.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with engineering, HR, and supply chain teams to ensure seamless facility launch.
- Operational Management: Lead and manage day-to-day operations, ensuring safety, quality, and productivity targets are met.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure a safe working environment and compliance with environmental requirements; maintain relationships with customers and align the organization to meet customer requirements efficiently.
- KPI & Financial Accountability: Achieve KPI targets including financial performance and the responsibilities of each staff/department manager.
- Strategic Planning: Develop short and long-term operating and business plans aligned with Region and Company goals; perform accurate planning, forecasting, variance analysis, and corrective actions.
- Organization & Resources: Manage plant staff, budgets, headcount, and resource planning; collaborate with engineering, supply chain, HR, and quality to drive plant-wide initiatives.
- Team Building & Talent Development: Recruit, hire, and develop the plant leadership team and hourly workforce; set expectations and foster accountability and ownership; partner with local schools and programs to support talent pipelines.
- Compliance & Standards: Ensure full compliance with company standards, environmental regulations, and applicable laws; promote a safety-first culture.
- Leadership Responsibilities: Communicate effectively at all levels; participate in employee relations, performance development, and maintaining a positive public image; ensure policy and regulatory compliance; support talent development and continuous improvement; undertake other duties as assigned.
Required Education & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or related field.
- 7+ years of manufacturing experience, with at least 3 years in a plant or operations leadership role.
- Prior experience with plant start-up or facility expansion strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver results in a fast-paced, high-growth manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and KPI management.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage change, build culture, and influence across all levels of an organization.
Why Choose Modine?
Health & Well-being
Day One benefits; competitive health, dental & vision insurance; Employee Assistance Program; maternity leave (12 weeks at 100% pay); short-term disability leave (8 weeks at 100%); paid parental leave (4 weeks); paternity leave (4 weeks at 100% pay).
Financial Benefits
401k retirement plan with company match; life insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution; Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA); short- and long-term disability.
Work-Life Balance
Competitive time-off policies; tuition reimbursement.
To view full benefits information: MyModine Benefits
Modine is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Modine provides a competitive benefit package and will provide more detail upon hiring.
Modine is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Welcomes all Qualified Applicants. EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability
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