Assistant Director of Operations- Charlotte, NC

Job Summary

At Fresh & Ready Food Group, we specialize in fresh, high-quality, ready-to-eat solutions delivered with speed, safety, and innovation. As Assistant Director of Operations, you will support the Director in leading all aspects of production, safety, quality, and performance within our manufacturing facility. This role is critical to executing operational strategies, developing frontline leaders, and driving continuous improvement aligned with Lean manufacturing and strict food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and lead high-performing teams focused on safety, quality, and operational excellence
• Coach and develop managers and supervisors, strengthening leadership and succession pipelines
• Maintain strong floor presence with a hands-on, problem-solving approach
• Champion a proactive safety culture and implement best-in-class safety practices
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards (including SQF and related programs)
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing and TPS methodologies
• Support cross-functional initiatives to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput
• Oversee material flow, production standards, and performance metrics
• Support financial targets through cost reduction, waste elimination, and process improvements
• Contribute to product innovation and ready-to-eat program growth
• Prepare and communicate operational performance insights to leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Business, Engineering, or a related field or 8+ years of relevant leadership experience in lieu of a degree
• 5–7+ years of leadership experience in food manufacturing or a similar environment
• Strong preference for ready-to-eat, fresh food, or short shelf-life production experience
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement practices
• Proven track record of operational success and increasing leadership responsibility
• Strong communication, leadership, and analytical skills

Work Environment & Travel

• Active, hands-on role requiring time on the production floor
• Exposure to temperature-controlled environments and manufacturing equipment
• Ability to travel occasionally to customer or supplier sites

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Hands-on leader with strong experience in ready-to-eat or fresh food production
• Continuous improvement mindset with proven Lean experience
• Safety- and quality-driven, with strong regulatory awareness
• Collaborative and people-focused, with the ability to build strong teams
• Results-oriented, balancing strategic thinking with day-to-day execution
• Adaptable and resilient in a fast-paced, high-growth environment

About Fresh & Ready Food Group

We offer a variety of benefits including:

• Retirement Plan
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

About Compass Group

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.