Job Details

Job Description

Production Planning Manager - Manufacturing Operations

Location: Danville, VA

Salary: 120k-150k

Graham Personnel Services is partnering with a global manufacturing leader employing over 46,000 professionals worldwide. This organization is built on the pillars of Efficiency, Quality, Innovation, and People, and offers a strong platform for leaders who want visibility, influence, and long-term growth.

We are seeking an experienced Production Planning Manager with a strong background in production planning, operational execution, forecasting, and continuous improvement. This role is ideal for a hands-on leader who enjoys optimizing end-to-end manufacturing workflows while developing people, processes, and performance.

Why This Role Appeals to Production & Operations Leaders

• High-impact role with end-to-end ownership of production planning and execution
• Strong emphasis on forecasting, budgeting, and operational efficiency
• Opportunity to lead continuous improvement initiatives using LEAN, TPM, and Six Sigma
• Collaborative environment connecting operations, engineering, quality, and maintenance
• Clear visibility to leadership with influence over strategy, investments, and performance

Key Responsibilities

Production Planning & Operational Execution

• Plan, coordinate, and manage end-to-end manufacturing and materials processing activities, including feeding, conditioning, picking, threshing, drying, packing, and inspection processes.
• Balance production output, quality, cost, and sustainability goals to meet business and stakeholder expectations.
• Monitor daily, weekly, and seasonal production plans to ensure compliance, efficiency, and delivery performance.

Equipment & Process Optimization

• Ensure processing equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and optimized during both peak production and off-season periods.
• Partner with maintenance teams to drive preventive maintenance, reliability improvements, and best-practice implementation.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Collaborate with Quality and Technical teams to ensure production meets or exceeds internal and regulatory standards.
• Track and improve EHS, efficiency, and quality KPIs, using data-driven analysis and structured problem-solving.
• Conduct risk assessments, ensure adherence to safety standards, and promote a safe, organized workplace culture.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing production team through performance reviews, feedback, and talent development discussions.
• Foster accountability, ownership, and continuous learning across the operation.
• Encourage team engagement in company initiatives, improvement programs, and innovation efforts.

Forecasting, Budgeting & Financial Ownership

• Forecast maintenance, operational, capital, and improvement needs aligned with business objectives.
• Develop, manage, and execute departmental budgets with discipline and accountability.
• Lead the DDS cycle and 90-day operational planning, identifying cost-reduction and productivity opportunities.

Project & Continuous Improvement Leadership

• Plan and execute manufacturing and improvement projects, ensuring alignment with scope, cost, quality, and timeline expectations.
• Drive continuous improvement using LEAN, TPM, Six Sigma, IWS, and structured problem-solving tools.
• Share best practices, standardize processes, and promote innovation across departments.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (specialization in Business or Sustainability preferred).
• Extensive experience in tobacco manufacturing operations, preferably in process-driven or regulated environments.
• Strong background in production planning, forecasting, and budget management.
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing cross-functional teams.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (LEAN, TPM, Six Sigma).
• Knowledge of quality, safety, environmental, and energy management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 50001, OHSAS 18001).
• Project management experience with strong stakeholder coordination skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office; SAP experience is a plus.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

Competitive Benefits Package

• Annual performance-based bonus
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage (employee & family)
• Matching 401(k)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Family Leave (up to 20 weeks)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Education & Tuition Assistance
• Flexible Dress Code
• Snacks & Drinks
• Office & Team Events
• Volunteering Opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (counseling for employees & family members)

Meet Your Recruiter

Kevin Melton