Plant Manager/VP

Plant Manager - Automotive Assembly
Location: Greenville County, South Carolina (Domestic & International Travel up to 10%)
Company: Isuzu North America Corporation

Excellent opportunity for a Plant Manager with the recently announced start-up of the Isuzu commercial truck facility in Piedmont. This role offers the chance to lead a major greenfield operation for one of the global leaders in commercial vehicles. The position is ideal for a strategic operations leader ready to shape a new assembly plant from the ground up while collaborating with international partners and aligning with Japanese business culture.

What You Need:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Management, or related field (MBA a plus)
• Minimum 7 years of experience in automotive manufacturing or related industry
• At least 5 years in a leadership/management role within automotive manufacturing
• Experience in OEM assembly operations is preferred
• Experience in automated assembly required, preferably involving larger, more complex products
• Start-up or large expansion experience highly preferred
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Prior experience working with Japanese automotive companies highly preferred
• Strong background in plant operations, production efficiency, and workforce management
• Familiarity with ERP systems and standard manufacturing software
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally (including Japan)

What You Will Do:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of a new vehicle assembly plant, with future expansion into welding and painting
• Drive plant production goals, quality standards, and on-time delivery
• Ensure full compliance with safety regulations and company policies
• Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma strategies
• Hire, train, and develop a high-performing production team from the ground up
• Coordinate with global supply chain teams and corporate stakeholders in the U.S. and Japan
• Manage plant budgets and implement cost control measures
• Report performance metrics and updates to executive leadership, including Japanese partners
• Develop long-term operational strategies aligned with company goals

About the Facility:

Isuzu North America Corporation is investing approximately $280 million to establish a new production facility in Greenville County, South Carolina. This 1 million-square-foot, state-of-the-art plant-set on over 200 acres-will feature a flexible production line capable of manufacturing both internal combustion and electric vehicles. Production will include the N-Series Gas, N-Series Electric, and F-Series Diesel trucks, with a targeted capacity of up to 50,000 units annually by 2030. Operations are expected to launch in 2027, with expansion slated for 2028. The facility's strategic location near I-85, I-26, and the Port of Charleston will support streamlined logistics and consolidated operations under one roof. The initiative is projected to create over 700 new jobs in the area.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive base salary
• Bonus plan
• Auto allowance
• 401(k) with match and additional company contribution (ARC program)
• Comprehensive healthcare and paid time off package

Why Join:

• Lead a greenfield startup operation for a global automotive leader
• Shape the culture and processes of a new plant from the ground up
• Collaborate with global partners like Volvo, GM, and Cummins
• Be part of a dominant and growing company in the light commercial truck segment
• Join a major investment project bringing over 700 jobs to South Carolina
  
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