From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 — all while keeping the heart of “People Build Businesses” alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people.

The Site Lead is responsible for safely and effectively leading daily operations at the Sonoco Richmond Service Center. This role oversees wood and plywood reel assembly, reel recycling, operational and financial performance, and the development of staff. Reporting to the Division Service Center Manager, the Site Lead works closely with Sonoco leaders to ensure a safe work environment while meeting financial and production goals, and customer requirements. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead daily operations for wood and plywood reel assembly and reel recycling, ensuring production, quality, safety, and customer-delivery requirements are met. 

• Monitor workflow, staffing, schedules, productivity, downtime, and key operating metrics; adjust priorities and processes as needed to achieve site goals. 

• Maintain accurate and timely production records to support operational reporting, financial analysis, and continuous improvement. 

• Partner with maintenance, quality, logistics, and division leadership to resolve operational issues, improve efficiency, and maintain reliable service. 

• Provide responsive customer service through daily communication and coordination with customers.  

• Lead or participate in daily KANBAN counts, review demand, order status, inventory needs, priorities, and communicate potential service issues.  

Financial and Business Responsibilities 

• Support the Division Service Center Manager in managing the site operating budget and monitoring labor, inventory, supplies, maintenance, overtime, scrap, and other operating expenses. 

• Analyze financial and operational data to identify cost-control opportunities and support sound business decisions. 

• Communicate site financial and operational results, staffing needs, training progress, and other key performance information to the Division Service Center Manager and appropriate Sonoco leadership. 

Safety, Quality, and Culture 

• Enforce Sonoco safety policies and maintain a safe workplace for employees and visitors. 

• Ensure established quality standards and operating procedures are followed, addressing concerns promptly and effectively. 

• Promote a culture of professionalism, accountability, teamwork, respect, inclusion, and continuous improvement. 

• Model responsible stewardship of company equipment, materials, time, and financial resources. 

Required Qualifications 

• Three to five years of production or manufacturing experience, including at least two years in a supervisory or leadership role. 

• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, woodworking tools, production equipment, quality standards, and workplace safety requirements. 

• Strong leadership, computer, communication, problem-solving, organizational, and relationship-building skills. 

• Ability to utilize software (including Microsoft Office) to analyze operational and financial information, establish priorities, and make sound business decisions. 

• Demonstrated commitment to safety, employee and workforce development, continuous improvement, and the responsible use of company resources. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in business, manufacturing, engineering, operations, education, or a related field; equivalent relevant experience will be considered. 

• Experience with site management, woodworking, reel assembly, recycling operations, workforce development, and/or customer relationships. 

Success in This Role 

Success in this position means maintaining a safe and reliable operation, meeting customer commitments, managing costs responsibly, developing employees, and building strong relationships with Sonoco leaders and customers. 

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.