Plant Director f/m/d

Donaldson is committed to solving the world’s most complex filtration challenges. Together, we make cool things. As an established technology and innovation leader, we are continuously evolving to meet the filtration needs of our changing world. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation that matters and a chance to learn, effect change, and make meaningful contributions at work and in communities.

Take charge of plant operations and introduce innovative solutions in a global environment. Join us to drive success, growth, and operational excellence while enjoying a rewarding career journey.

Why You Should Apply:

We offer a high degree of autonomy in managing plant operations, allowing you to shape the plant, steer significant projects, and drive operational improvements

As part of a well-established global company, we offer the opportunity for professional growth and development within an international environment, with exposure to senior functions.

Receive competitive compensation along with attractive extra benefits, such as a bonus plan, a company car, accident insurance, retirement provision.

Role Responsibilities:

Continuously improve the safety of operations, mitigating risks for both employees and the company. Develop and apply plant operating procedures in line with Donaldson Europe policies and local regulations.

Take full responsibility for plant operations, ensuring seamless coordination across all departments to optimize production efficiency, reduce downtime, and achieve operational targets.

Steer initiatives to implement automation and LEAN management methodology, optimize processes, and drive cost optimization, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Oversee the execution of current and future projects with a hands-on approach, ensuring effective implementation of international projects and maintaining high standards in production efficiency and process optimization.

Be attentive to the plant’s health and wellness and collaborate with the work counsel to develop strategies aimed at improving overall employee engagement, well-being, and attendance, ensuring a positive work environment for all.

Minimum Qualifications:

Extensive experience at a managerial level within a factory, with a background in Production, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, or Quality. You should have led a team within a production facility (50+ FTEs), demonstrating expertise in managing complex operations.

Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior management role overseeing a team of 7 employees, with demonstrated ability to develop and mentor a strong, autonomous management team and drive high-performance results across departments.

Demonstrated experience in managing significant operational changes, including process optimization, product introductions, and the successful implementation of international projects, with a hands-on, results-driven approach.

Fluent in both German and English, with strong communication skills to effectively engage with diverse teams, stakeholders, and international partners.

Bonus points if you have:

Experience working in an international environment, collaborating with global stakeholders to drive improvement and business success.

Familiarity with manufacturing in industries such as automotive, agriculture, and construction, particularly with products such as filters for trucks, agricultural, and construction machines.

Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent is a bonus

Employment opportunities for positions in the United States may require use of information which is subject to the export control regulations of the United States. Hiring decisions for such positions are required by law to be made in compliance with these regulations. Applicants for employment opportunities in other countries must be able to meet the comparable export control requirements of that country and of the United States.

Donaldson Company has been made aware that there are several recruiting scams that are targeting job seekers. These scams have attempted to solicit money for job applications and/or collect confidential information, Donaldson will never solicit money during the application or recruiting process. Donaldson only accepts online applications through our Careers Donaldson Company, Inc. website and any communication from a Donaldson recruiter would be sent using a donaldson.com email address. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of an employment opportunity, please reach out to to verify that the communication is from Donaldson.

Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or expression, or other status protected by law.

JR-23093