Production Manager

Production Manager

Location: St. Catharines, Ontario

Department: Production

Reports to: General Manager

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Production Manager to lead their manufacturing operations. This role requires a hands-on leader who can drive efficiency, ensure quality, and optimize production processes while managing a skilled workforce. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills with a track record of continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

● Production Operations & Efficiency

• Oversee daily production activities, ensuring targets for quality, efficiency, and on-time delivery are met.
• Implement lean manufacturing and process improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Ensure proper scheduling, staffing, and workflow optimization to meet demand.
• Maintain inventory control and coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations.

● Leadership & Workforce Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing production team.
• Oversee hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management of production staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Enforce workplace safety regulations and promote a strong safety-first culture.

● Quality Control & Compliance

• Ensure high standards of craftsmanship in line with the premium nature of our products.
• Monitor and maintain compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to identify and address defects or process inefficiencies.

● Continuous Improvement & Strategic Planning

• Analyze production metrics and implement improvements for efficiency, cost reduction, and waste minimization.
• Work closely with leadership to align production strategies with business goals.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

● 10-15 years of experience in a labor-intensive manufacturing environment.

● Minimum 5 years in a production management role leading 100+ workers.

● Experience in wood manufacturing, cabinetry, millwork, or related industries.

● Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing, process automation, and continuous improvement.

● Ability to prioritize, multitask, and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment.

● Excellent communication and leadership skills with a proven ability to motivate and develop teams.

Key Competencies

● Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving – Ability to identify and implement efficiency improvements.

● Team Leadership & Workforce Development – Experience coaching, mentoring, and building high-performing teams.

● Quality Control & Process Optimization – Strong understanding of best practices in production efficiency.

● Safety & Compliance – Commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.