Project Lead, Production

Job-ID: 16372; Location(s): McPherson, KS 

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Understand production. Manage projects. Shape the future.

The Project Lead Production (PLP) will play a critical role in executing Viega LLC’s Article Transition process. This initiative involves relocating the production of specific articles from Germany to the McPherson manufacturing site, as well as managing local production transitions between regional sites. The PLP will serve as the operational point person for transition-related projects, ensuring cross-functional alignment, detailed planning, and seamless execution to meet operational, quality, and timeline objectives.

The ideal candidate will bring deep manufacturing knowledge, exceptional leadership presence, and the drive to navigate complex organizational challenges. You’ll work cross-functionally with regional and global stakeholders to keep transitions on track, on time, and aligned with strategic priorities. We need someone who demonstrates resilience and resolve in complex environments.

JOB DESCRIPTION DETAILS

• Lead end-to-end execution of article transitions, ensuring timely production relocation and ramp-up.
• Serve as the point person for manufacturing readiness, working closely with production sites, technical teams, and global counterparts.
• Develop and manage project plans, KPIs, and reporting related to manufacturing milestones.
• Challenge the status quo to remove roadblocks, follow escalation protocols, and push for proactive resolution.
• Communicate confidently and clearly across all levels—from shop floor operators to senior executives.
• Facilitate alignment between regional and global teams on transition scope, capacity planning, and execution timelines.
• Support risk management, contingency planning, and change control processes throughout transitions.
• Attend meetings as required and/or assigned.
• Performs other duties as required and/or assigned.

Other

• Must be based in McPherson, KS
• Hybrid work environment (3 days in office, 2 days remote)
• Travel up to 20% to regional sites

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience in global manufacturing environments or article transitions
• Experienced project leader
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to lead cross-functionally and cross-culturally
• Is a critical thinker and problem solver
• Strong time management and critical thinking skills
• Attention to detail
• Knowledge of Change Management principles
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong computer skills including the use of MS Office Suite
• Experience with SAP preferred

Education, Certification/License & Work Experience

• 7-10 years of work experience in various manufacturing and project management positions preferred.
• Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in engineering, business, business administration, computer science, statistics or information systems

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Wellness Program
• Health Saving Account (HSA) with a company contribution
• Voluntary Benefits (Life, AD&D, Disability)
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 7.5% company contribution
• Time Off Programs – 22 days Paid Time Off (PTO), 9 company holidays, 2 Volunteer Days
• Paid parental leave, adoption and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) assistance
• Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Repayment

Wondering if you should apply? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Viega, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but don’t check every box in the qualifications section, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate.

If you have questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our Talent Acquisition team at Viega.Recruiting@viega.us.