Michael Leitert
ConMet
Vice President, North America Plastics Manufacturing Operations
Canton, North Carolina, USA
ConMet
Vice President, North America Plastics Manufacturing Operations
Canton, North Carolina, USA
With more than thirty years of experience in operations and business management, Michael Leitert has developed a leadership style rooted in efficiency, innovation, and team-driven success. As Vice President of North American Plastics Manufacturing Operations at ConMet, he ensures safety, quality, delivery, and cost efficiency across all plastics operations.
Michael’s expertise in manufacturing engineering, strategic process improvements, and executive leadership has allowed him to lead high-impact initiatives that enhance both profitability and performance. His ability to tackle complex manufacturing challenges with precision makes him an invaluable asset to ConMet’s leadership team.
Michael has played a key role in transforming ConMet’s plastics operations, notably leading the turnaround of the Canton, North Carolina, facility. By implementing structured processes, reinforcing corporate trust, and strengthening customer confidence, he helped stabilize and improve the plant’s performance.
In 2022, ConMet received PACCAR’s 10 PPM recognition, marking a major improvement from its previous standing as one of PACCAR’s underperforming suppliers. Under Michael’s leadership, the company enhanced quality and reliability, meeting high industry standards and solidifying its reputation as a trusted supplier.
Michael values ConMet’s inclusive, cooperative culture, where teams work together to drive both manufacturing and customer strategies. He credits the company’s leadership and ESOP structure for fostering an environment that empowers employees and aligns them toward shared success—a key factor in achieving his long-term goal of scaling plastics operations for profitable growth.
"ConMet’s purpose aligns with my values because it cultivates an organization built on integrity, customer trust, innovation, respect, and a commitment to product and service excellence."
A major driver of this success has been ConMet’s tiered accountability systems, which increase transparency, strengthen team responsibility, and promote continuous improvement. By emphasizing innovation and efficiency, the company is optimizing operations, enhancing the customer experience, and shaping the future of the industry.
Reflecting on his career, Michael emphasizes the importance of balance—a lesson he would share with his younger self. While his dedication to operational excellence has driven his success, he recognizes the need to maintain both professional and personal priorities.
With a focus on collaboration, accountability, and innovation, Michael continues to play a key role in ensuring that ConMet’s plastics operations remain scalable, efficient, and positioned for long-term success.