Hiring a manufacturing general manager is great exit strategy for owners not ready to sell their business yet.
If you’re a manufacturing business owner thinking about stepping back, a strong General Manager could be your most important hire. Whether you’re aiming for an exit or just want to regain your time, the right GM can drive performance, protect your margins, and support your long-term goals.
1. Manufacturing General Manager Operational Excellence
Manufacturing lives and dies by process. A great GM must manage production schedules, inventory systems, and quality control—without dropping the ball. Operational gaps show up quickly in a manufacturing environment.
2. Financial Acumen
Margins in manufacturing are razor-thin. Your manufacturing general manager should track key metrics like COGS, labor efficiency, and profitability by SKU or project. A financially literate GM can identify hidden costs and drive profitability.
3. Lean Manufacturing Thinking
A manufacturing general manager familiar with Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar methodologies will actively reduce waste, streamline operations, and drive continuous improvement. This is where your operational gains turn into measurable valuation increases.
4. Leadership & People Management
Manufacturing teams are often large, diverse, and shift-based. Your GM must lead from the floor as well as the boardroom. They should build morale, manage performance, and retain top talent.
5. Manufacturing Industry-Specific Knowledge
Compliance, safety standards, and supply chain dynamics vary widely across manufacturing sectors. Whether you’re in food production or custom machining, you need a GM who already understands your world.
6. Tech & Automation Savvy
Modern manufacturing involves ERP systems, automation, robotics, and connected devices (IoT). Your GM should not only be tech-literate but willing to invest in and lead tech upgrades.
7. Exit or Transition Readiness
If your goal is to sell, the right GM can make your business more turnkey—and more valuable. If you’re keeping it, they need the skills to run things smoothly while you scale back involvement.