Sr. Manager Plant Performance and Operations, Seasoning

Full Job Description The Sr. Manager, Plant Performance & Operations, Seasoning is responsible for the overall performance of the Seasoning manufacturing business, including safety, quality, service, cost, and people development. This role provides leadership across production, warehouse, planning, and inventory functions to ensure effective execution and alignment with business objectives. The position drives operational excellence through cross-functional collaboration, continuous improvement, and strong leadership of people and processes. This job reports to the Director of Spice Business Operations Key Responsibilities Plant & Operational Leadership Lead all aspects of Seasoning operations, including production, warehouse, planning, and inventoryEnsure alignment of daily execution with business priorities, customer needs, and production schedulesDrive a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous improvement Safety, Quality & Compliance Champion a strong safety culture, driving proactive improvements and accountability at all levelsLead efforts to strengthen food safety and quality systems, partnering closely with QualityEnsure compliance with all regulatory, audit, and internal standardsOversee readiness and execution of customer and regulatory audits, including follow-up actions Performance & Continuous Improvement Own plant-level performance metrics including safety, quality, service, cost, and productivityUse data and metrics to identify gaps, prioritize initiatives, and drive measurable improvementLead structured root cause problem-solving for quality issues, operational disruptions, and customer complaintsDrive labor efficiency and process improvements through standardized tools and continuous improvement methods Cross-Functional Leadership Ensure effective scheduling and executionInfluence and collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, and Sr. Manager Plant Performance and Operations, Spice to optimize overall plant performanceMaintain strong communication across functions to proactively address risks, constraints, and opportunities Financial & Resource Management Own and manage labor and departmental costs, including staffing, overtime, and temporary laborOptimize resource utilization to balance cost, service, and operational efficiencyImplement improvements in processes, equipment use, and working conditions to maximize productivity Systems, Controls & Execution Discipline Ensure accurate and consistent use of ERP and production systems (e.g., RedZone)Maintain and improve documentation systems, including SOPs, performance tracking, and employee development plansAudit production and operational records to ensure accuracy and compliance Leadership & People Development Develop and coach leaders and teams to build a high-performing, engaged organizationSet clear expectations and hold teams accountable for results and behaviorsBuild a culture focused on ownership, growth, and continuous learningStrong Cross Functional Communication and Influence to maintain and improve plant operations with the Sr. Manager Plant Performance and Operations for Spice, Quality, and Engineering and Maintenance Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)Minimum of 5+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing (food industry preferred)Strong experience with plant operations, process improvement, and KPI managementWorking knowledge of regulatory requirements (OSHA, food safety standards such as SQF preferred)Able to physically handle up to and including 50 lbs. Core Competencies Strong leadership and team development capabilitiesExcellent problem-solving and root cause analysis skillsAbility to balance short-term execution with long-term strategyEffective cross-functional collaboration and influencing skillsStrong decision-making under pressure and ambiguityHigh level of accountability and ownershipAbility to make and effectively communicate timely, difficult decisions in the best interest of the team and businessAssesses and manages risk effectively, seeking input when needed and confidently navigating uncertainty Key Attributes Adaptable to a lighthearted, creative, solution-based environment.Organized, self-disciplined, goal-oriented, and people focused.Confident and self-less leader with high expectations, driven by results, and motivated by the success of the team.Able to provide professional leadership, motivation, and direction. Work Environment Noise level - mid rangeRegularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles.PPE is required to be worn.