Operations Manager

Essential Functions

• Cook up and oversee the plant's safety, quality, maintenance, and sanitation efforts.
• Collaborate with supervisors to meet plant goals and metrics in areas like safety, quality, cost, and productivity.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
• Manage the facility's budget, covering direct/temp labor, overtime, and other plant expenses.
• Handle employment-related tasks in partnership with Human Resources.
• Support the professional development of direct reports through comprehensive training and development programs.
• Partner with Sales and Quality Assurance on new product development.
• Work with Quality Assurance to ensure finished products meet established quality specifications and food safety standards.
• Participate in plant self-assessment audits to uphold quality/food safety and environmental, health, and safety standards.
• Maintain departmental compliance with all relevant regulations including FDA, EPA, OSHA, and HACCP.
• Support the food safety program, quality standards, and legality of manufactured products.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is preferred.
• At least 5 years of management experience in a food processing or regulated manufacturing facility.
• Knowledge of regulatory disciplines such as EPA, OSHA, FDA, and USDA is required.
• Experience with BRC or SQF audits is preferred, and an AIB Science of Baking and HACCP training course certificate is desirable.
• Proficient in quality and food safety systems, with strong computer skills including Microsoft Office applications and experience with ERP systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with bilingual capability desired.
• Proven leadership abilities, drive for efficiency, and strong employee relations skills.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain high attention to detail, and work various shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.