Job Title:
Director, Maintenance and Asset Reliability
Location:
Multiple U.S. manufacturing sites
At least one opening must be based in Chicago, IL.
Additional preferred locations: Richmond, VA or Portland, OR
100% On-site | 2 Openings
Industry:
Manufacturing & Production (FMCG – Food & Beverage)
Job Level:
Director | Senior Leadership
Reports To:
Executive Leadership / VP of Operations
Salary Range:
$141,000 – $246,750 (USD)
Total comp includes eligibility for performance-based bonus and long-term incentives.
Relocation Assistance: Yes
Interview Travel Reimbursed: Yes
Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Work Authorization: Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
Position Summary:
A global consumer goods leader is seeking a Director of Maintenance and Asset Reliability to drive the strategic transformation of Progressive Maintenance (PM) and asset reliability across a network of U.S.-based manufacturing facilities. This executive will provide hands-on coaching and leadership to plant-level maintenance teams—ensuring alignment with safety, quality, cost, and operational excellence goals in union environments.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead implementation and governance of Planned Maintenance culture across multiple plants
Institutionalize CMMS usage (e.g., SAP PM, SAP MM) for predictive/preventive maintenance and inventory control
Drive reduction in equipment downtime and maintenance-related costs through analytics and root cause solutions
Build capability in site teams to proactively detect, resolve, and prevent equipment abnormalities
Standardize critical maintenance KPIs: MTBF, PM compliance, unplanned downtime, and cost-per-repair metrics
Design and deliver maintenance training and upskilling programs in partnership with HR
Lead TPM/LEAN initiatives and implement FMGC best practices in a regulated, labor-diverse environment
Drive excellence in safety, environmental, and compliance policies (e.g., OSHA, FDA standards)
Collaborate cross-functionally with supply chain, engineering, and plant operations leadership
Coach and inspire maintenance managers and plant teams through strong hands-on leadership
Required Experience & Skills:
10+ years in Maintenance/Engineering leadership roles within FMCG or high-speed manufacturing
Proven leadership within unionized plants and multi-site environments
Deep understanding of TPM, PM (Progressive Maintenance), 5S, LEAN, and Six Sigma tools
Demonstrated success leading change, optimizing asset reliability, and mentoring large technical teams
Strong working knowledge of CMMS platforms (preferably SAP PM/MM)
Experience with critical equipment failure analysis and plant turnaround strategies
Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills
Knowledge of OSHA, FDA, and other relevant safety/compliance regulations
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field required; MBA or TPM/LEAN certifications a plus
Soft Skills & Leadership Qualities:
Conflict resolution and performance coaching in diverse cultural/labor environments
Ability to balance firm standards with flexible, compassionate leadership
Strong business and financial acumen
Comfortable navigating fluid, fast-paced operational challenges
Influential communicator across all levels—from the shop floor to the C-suite
Travel Requirements:
Occasional travel to manufacturing sites across the U.S.
Compensation & Benefits Overview:
Base Salary: $141,000 – $246,750 (commensurate with experience)
Bonus: Eligible for highly competitive annual bonus + long-term incentive plan
Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, 401(k), paid time off, education support, family wellness programs, and more
Relocation & Interview Travel: Supported