Chief Operating Officer

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the quality and food safety executives.
• Ensure the highest standards of food safety across all manufacturing and distribution processes.
• Develop, implement, and monitor food safety programs to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Lead initiatives to continuously improve food safety protocols and ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality products to consumers.
• Ensure all operations comply with relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Manage the team that oversees the operations in North America.
• Lead and manage all aspects of the company’s operations, ensuring efficiency & OTIF.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that support the company’s growth.
• Oversee supply chain management, production & supply chain processes, and logistics to optimize efficiency and minimize costs.
• Manage IT/Systems executives.
• Oversee the integration and management of IT systems that support the company’s operational & financial needs.
• Ensure the IT infrastructure is robust, secure, and capable of supporting the company’s growth.
• Drive the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and data management.
• Manage the finance executives.
• Oversee the finance department, ensuring sound financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and optimizing resource allocation and capital expenditures to support the company’s objectives.
• Collaborate with the finance team to develop financial strategies that align with the company’s goals for profitability.
• Monitor financial performance and implement corrective actions to address any deviations from the company’s financial plans.
• Lead the Sourcing & Development team.
• Provide strong leadership to department heads, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Work closely with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company’s strategic plans.
• Act as a key decision-maker in operational, financial, and strategic matters, ensuring the company’s long-term success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Food Science, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in operations and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a leadership position as VP, Director or equivalent.
• Proven experience managing a network of food manufacturing facilities in both the US and emerging markets with responsibilities in Food Safety & Operations.
• Experience dealing with North American retailers is required. In the food private label industry is a strong plus.
• Strong knowledge of IT systems management within a manufacturing environment with proven experience of ERP implementation and use.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency, creating & optimizing processes, and food safety / quality control.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards in the food sector.
• Excellent leadership, communication (Spanish is a plus), and team-building skills.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term objectives with long-term growth goals.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.