Factory Director

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Factory Director 

Location: Suffolk, Virginia

Job Type: Full-Time

Travel Required: Limited

Your Role

As the Suffolk Factory Director, you will lead all aspects of factory operations at our flagship manufacturing site in Suffolk, VA. You will be responsible for delivering safety, quality, service, cost, and people performance across a 24/5 operation. This role is pivotal in driving transformation, embedding a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring the site is future-ready.

You will lead a diverse team of salaried and hourly employees, partnering closely with cross-functional leaders in Quality, Planning, Logistics, Engineering, and People & Organization. You will also serve as a liaison with union representatives and external stakeholders, ensuring smooth labor relations and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Safety Leadership: Champion a zero-incident safety culture. Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and internal protocols.
• Operational Leadership: Oversee all factory operations, ensuring delivery of KPIs across safety, quality, cost, service, and sustainability.
• Transformation & Strategy: Lead the site’s multi-year transformation agenda, including capital investments, organizational redesign, and capability building.
• People Leadership: Build a high-performing, inclusive culture. Develop talent, drive engagement, and foster leadership at all levels.
• Quality & Compliance: Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and internal quality systems. Partner with Quality Leads to drive continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Management: Represent the site in regional and global forums. Maintain strong relationships with union leadership, local authorities, and community partners.
• Financial Stewardship: Manage site budget and capital expenditure. Drive cost optimization and productivity initiatives.

What You’ll Need to Succeed

• Proven experience in factory or supply chain leadership, ideally in food or beverage manufacturing.
• Strong track record of leading transformation and change management.
• Deep understanding of operational excellence, lean manufacturing, and quality systems.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and influence across levels.
• Experience managing unionized environments is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in Engineering, Operations, or Business is a plus.

Why Join Us

At Lipton Teas and Infusions, we offer more than a job—we offer a journey. You’ll be part of a purpose-driven organization that values wellbeing, sustainability, and innovation. We provide space to grow, freedom to lead, and a community where ideas thrive.

A Great Place to Grow 

Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all. 

• Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we want to help you to truly realise your potential. With a strong internal nurturing network and a focus on your development, you can grow your leadership with us. When you grow, the world around you will grow.
• Grow your VALUE - To foster your learning, we offer big, fulfilling roles within an empowering and entrepreneurial climate. You will have the space to take ownership and to make your mark – and you will be rewarded for the value that you create.
• Grow your IMPACT – We are unique in our industry - from our tea estates to our factories, labs and offices, we innovate sustainably and drive value for all. We grow a world of wellbeing, from seed to sip. You can truly leave your mark on our company and on the planet -through the meaningful work that you do. 

Benefits & Perks 

• Comprehensive insurance plans - health, dental + disability and life Insurance
• 401(k) with 5% company matching + an extra 4% after your first year
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Accounts
• Generous time off including paid vacation, company holidays, and floating holidays
• Parental Leave - Primary & Secondary
• Learning and development reimbursement

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is an organization committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. We are interested in every individual bringing their whole self to work and this includes you! Therefore if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.