Case Studies

Stabilizing Plant Operations Through Workforce Strategy

2 minute read

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: A private label food manufacturer was facing significant operational setbacks rooted in workforce instability across several plants. Catena Solutions partnered with the organization to assess the environment, strengthen leadership, and implement workforce strategies that improved safety, morale, and productivity. The result was a more engaged workforce, stronger management practices, and greater stability during a period of organizational transition.

The Challenge: Underperforming Plants

Several of the manufacturer’s plants were struggling due to high turnover, insufficient on-site leadership, and low employee engagement. These issues were contributing to safety concerns, production delays, and broader operational inefficiencies.

The challenge was intensified by an ongoing divestiture, which created uncertainty and made it difficult to attract and retain talent. Employees lacked confidence in the future of the organization, and plant leaders were stretched thin trying to maintain performance.

The Solution: Strengthening Leadership & Workforce Foundations

Catena Solutions stepped in to evaluate the situation and determine what was needed to stabilize and rebuild the workforce. The assessment made it clear that stronger leadership and structured HR support were required to get the plants back on track.

We deployed an expert team of Plant HR Leaders who:

• Assessed the current state of workforce operations including recruiting practices, staffing levels, leadership capabilities, and HR processes
• Identified areas for improvement and provided targeted recommendations
• Executed plans to strengthen workforce performance and plant culture
• Delivered hands-on leadership to stabilize multiple underperforming facilities
• Applied Lean Six Sigma principles to foster a mindset of continuous improvement

The Benefit: A Stronger Workforce & More Efficient Plants

The organization saw immediate and lasting benefits, including stronger processes for recruiting, hiring, training, and employee development. Engagement improved as employees gained renewed confidence in leadership and plant direction.

Additional outcomes included:

• More effective employee relations practices
• Stronger legal documentation and HR compliance
• Improved operational consistency during a critical divestiture period

Overall, Catena’s support enabled the company to regain stability, improve plant performance, and create a more resilient workforce.

Facing similar challenges? Contact us to learn how Catena Solutions can help strengthen your workforce and improve operational performance.