Operations Leaders Who Deliver Results
Manufacturing excellence requires leaders who can optimize production, build strong teams, and drive continuous improvement. We recruit operations professionals who understand both the shop floor and the boardroom — leaders who can transform facilities, strengthen supply chains, and deliver measurable results.
Roles We Fill in Manufacturing
From individual contributors to executive leadership, we recruit across all levels of manufacturing talent.
Plant Managers
Site leaders who drive safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
Operations Directors
Multi-site leaders who optimize operations across facilities.
Supply Chain Leaders
Experts in procurement, logistics, and end-to-end supply chain optimization.
Quality Directors
Leaders who ensure product quality and drive quality system excellence.
Lean/CI Managers
Continuous improvement experts who drive operational excellence culture.
Production Managers
Front-line leaders who manage daily production and team performance.
VP of Operations
Executive leaders who set operational strategy and drive transformation.
EHS Directors
Environmental, Health & Safety leaders who ensure compliance and safety culture.
Maintenance Managers
Leaders who ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
Our Manufacturing Expertise
With decades of combined experience in manufacturing recruiting, we understand the technical requirements, industry dynamics, and cultural factors that make a successful placement.
- Deep understanding of manufacturing environments — automotive, aerospace, food, medical device
- Strong network across the Midwest manufacturing corridor
- Experience placing in both lean startups and complex, multi-site operations
- Knowledge of industry standards (ISO, IATF, FDA) and their operational implications
- Track record of finding leaders who can build culture while driving results
- Understanding of Industry 4.0, automation, and manufacturing technology trends
“People First Recruiting transformed our HR director search by understanding our manufacturing culture and sourcing a leader who not only had the credentials but aligned with our values. Their no-nonsense approach is why we'll call them first for future needs.”