Plant Manager Düren

Sonoco, a global leader in the packaging industry, is looking for motivated talent! As a world‑class provider of sustainable metal and fiber-based consumer and industrial packaging, we operate 285 facilities in 40 countries and employ more than 23,000 people worldwide.

Our integrated packaging solutions help shape distinctive brand personalities, create unique customer experiences, and enhance both product quality and quality of life for people around the globe. All of this is driven by our purpose: Better Packaging. Better Life.®

We are currently looking for a

Plant Manager (all genders)

for our location in 52399 Merzenich (near Düren)

Your Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute production plans to meet targets, aligned with company guidelines, marketing forecasts, quality standards, and budget constraints.

• Ensure workplace safety and compliance with all safety regulations; continuously optimize safety practices.

• Monitor and analyze operating costs, identify deviations, and implement improvement measures.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce costs, enhance quality, and improve operational efficiency.

• Prepare and manage the annual operating budget; oversee requests for extraordinary expenses.

• Set annual production targets and ensure products are manufactured at optimal cost while meeting quality specifications.

• Manage raw material control and maintain efficient inventory practices.

• Implement effective waste reduction programs.

• Promote continuous training in plant development, processes, and production techniques.

• Collaborate with Quality Management (QM) team to uphold standards.

• Foster high employee morale and performance; ensure consistent application of HR policies and development programs.

• Maintain effective communication with employees and conduct regular performance reviews, including individual development plans.

• Work closely with Area Sales Managers to align operational plans with sales objectives.

Why Sonoco?

• Become part of a global market leader and actively shape the future of the packaging industry.

• Benefit from excellent development opportunities in a modern work environment, including diverse career paths, professional training and our internal learning platform Sonoco University.

• Experience a structured global onboarding programme that makes you a full member of the Sonoco team from day one.

• Receive competitive remuneration that reflects your qualifications and experience.

• Enjoy attractive benefits such as employee discounts via corporate benefits, bike leasing and a company pension scheme.

Responsibility for occupational safety at Sonoco
At Sonoco, workplace safety is a central part of our corporate culture. We expect all employees not only to follow safety guidelines, but to actively strengthen our safety culture through:

• Participation in comprehensive safety trainings and regular safety meetings.

• Open, proactive feedback and the consistent reporting of potential risks to prevent accidents and protect colleagues.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Engineering degree or equivalent technical training with strong technical understanding.

• 3–5 years of experience in a similar role; experience in paper processing is a plus.

• Fluent in English (written and spoken); business-level German proficiency required.

• Strong PC skills and familiarity with relevant applications.

• Proven leadership and project management experience.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.

• Goal-oriented, assertive, and highly organized with strong analytical abilities.

• Customer-focused with a collaborative team approach.

• High self-motivation, resilience, and commitment.

• Integrity, reliability, and loyalty.

• Knowledge of Kaizen and Lean tools preferred.

Ready for this exciting challenge?

Join us and help shape the future of packaging technology!

Apply now – easily and conveniently via the link below – and become part of the Sonoco team. We look forward to your application.

Welcome to Team Sonoco!

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