Paul Potenza Sr.
Channahon
Summary
Results-driven Plant Operations Supervisor with 10+ years of experience leading high-volume manufacturing environments. Proven ability to manage teams of 30–90+ employees, optimize labor efficiency, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that reduce downtime and increase output. Skilled in production scheduling, OSHA safety compliance, and quality control, with a hands-on approach to equipment troubleshooting and workforce development. Consistently delivers strong operational performance while maintaining accountability, safety, and high-quality standards.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Plant Operations Supervisor
Bimbo Bakeries USA
Chicago
04.2014 - Current
- Lead daily operations for a team of 30-35 employees per shift, ensuring production, safety, and quality targets are consistently achieved.
- Coordinate production schedules and workforce planning for 90+ employees, optimizing labor allocation and operational efficiency.
- Improve production performance by minimizing downtime through hands-on equipment troubleshooting and process adjustments.
- Enforce strict quality standards, ensuring consistency in product specifications (temperature, size, and packaging integrity).
- Train and develop employees, strengthening team performance and reducing operational errors.
- Manage payroll processing using Kronos and ADP, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Conduct monthly safety training and enforce OSHA standards, maintaining a safe work environment.
- Collaborate with union representatives to resolve workforce issues and maintain positive labor relations.
- Monitor attendance, enforce policies, and handle disciplinary actions to maintain accountability and performance.
CDL Driver (Class A)
Palatine Oil Company
Palatine
07.2013 - 04.2014
- Safely transported fuel and oil while maintaining 100% compliance with DOT and safety regulations.
- Conducted pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure vehicle safety and operational readiness.
- Operated specialized equipment including tanker trucks, boom crane, and fuel transfer systems.
- Maintained accurate logs and compliance documentation.
- Assisted with installation and removal of fuel tanks in field operations.
- Ensured proper handling of hazardous materials in accordance with safety standards.
Shipping Lead (Acting Supervisor)
Wonder Bread / Hostess Brands
Hodgkins
07.2002 - 11.2012
- Supervised daily shipping operations, ensuring accurate and timely distribution of products.
- Acted as supervisor when needed, maintaining workflow continuity and team productivity.
- Coordinated loading, unloading, and dispatch operations in a high-volume environment.
- Scheduled employees and assigned delivery routes to maximize efficiency.
- Reduced operational delays by improving communication between production and shipping teams.
- Controlled labor costs by monitoring hours and minimizing unnecessary overtime.
- Enforced GMP and safety standards to maintain compliance.
- Maintained accurate production and inventory records.
- Operated forklifts and power equipment in fast-paced warehouse operations.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice (60 Credit Hours Completed)
Harper College
Palatine, IL05-1999
Skills
- Plant Operations & Production Management
- Team Leadership & Workforce Development (30–90 Employees)
- Production Scheduling & Labor Planning
- Cost Control & Labor Efficiency Optimization
- Safety Compliance & OSHA Standards
- Quality Assurance & Process Control
- Union Labor Relations
- Continuous Improvement & Downtime Reduction
- Inventory Control & Distribution Operations
- Equipment Troubleshooting & Maintenance Coordination
- Payroll & Workforce Systems (Kronos, ADP)
- Logistics & Shipping Coordination
- Commercial Driving (Class A CDL)
- CPR/First Aid Certified
Certification
Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) — All Endorsements, Illinois, Issued 2013
Timeline
Plant Operations Supervisor
Bimbo Bakeries USA
04.2014 - Current
CDL Driver (Class A)
Palatine Oil Company
07.2013 - 04.2014
Shipping Lead (Acting Supervisor)
Wonder Bread / Hostess Brands
07.2002 - 11.2012
Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice (60 Credit Hours Completed)
Harper College