Are you an accomplished leader with a wealth of experience in production and manufacturing operations? Our client is seeking a Head of Production & Manufacturing who has a proven track record of driving change and optimizing performance. This pivotal role involves assessing the operational landscape of our client’s company, understanding their valued team, and strategically implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and culture.
Our client is a well-respected company with three decades of experience supplying value-added products to food service, retail, and food manufacturing companies across the Western US. They are highly regarded for their customer-focused approach and expertise in fresh-cut fruits and vegetables and more. Known for their reliability, product quality, and commitment to value, they consistently strive for the highest standards, and continuous improvement, throughout their operations.
In the first 90 days, you'll immerse yourself in the organization, taking a consultative approach to grasp the nuances of the business and get to know the people and processes. Drawing on your expertise, you'll develop thoughtful strategies for improvement, establish key performance indicators, and create operational reports. Your leadership will be instrumental in refining processes, fostering a positive workplace culture, and ensuring alignment with their financial goals.
The ideal candidate will possess over a decade of experience in manufacturing/production operations, with a knack for problem-solving and a data-driven approach to decision-making. You'll be a strategic thinker who isn't afraid to roll up your sleeves and lead by example, with a focus on driving results while maintaining a people-first approach. With a steady growth trajectory and commitment to their loyal team, this role offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their operations and shape the future of the company.
Join our client in leading a loyal team through the challenges of just-in-time manufacturing of ready-to-eat foods. With 24/7 operations, multiple buildings, and a diverse product range, you will have the opportunity to spearhead initiatives, develop new products, and take ownership of operations. This position offers more than just a job—it's a chance to showcase your leadership skills, drive innovation, and leave a lasting mark on the industry.
- Lead the Operations team to ensure safe, high-quality production, while maintaining plant safety, food safety, and cost efficiencies.
- Define plant operations objectives and develop short and long-term plans and budgets.
- Manage operational efficiencies including yields, labor, and shipping/picking.
- Measure results against key operating indicator targets.
- Implement and maintain plant operations, reporting on performance and initiating improvements.
- Organize and oversee production line activities to ensure quality, safety, and productivity.
- Monitor productivity data and develop corrective action plans for productivity improvements.
- Ensure compliance with operating procedures and food safety measures.
- Plan and facilitate the successful rollout of new products.
- Coordinate master planning, production, receiving, purchasing, and inventory management.
- Act as liaison for procurement of services and materials.
- Develop management systems and establish work measurement programs.
- Maintain or exceed goals on yields and efficiencies.
- Implement safety measures and ensure employee compliance.
- Supervise and develop line leads, supervisors, and managers.
- Coordinate all production staff and activities, performance management and employee development.
- Continuously improve processes, procedures, and infrastructure for profitability.
- Monitor and evaluate cost and productivity standards.
- Foster good employee relations based on company vision.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field, preferred.
- Demonstrated proficiency in industrial engineering within a production environment.
- 10+ years of experience in food operations management and expert in principles and practices.
- 7+ years of successful leadership experience in a food manufacturing setting.
- Comprehensive understanding of food safety regulations and general plant safety protocols.
- Proven ability to apply project management principles to drive successful outcomes.
- Deep knowledge of business and management principles, with a strategic mindset.
- Track record of developing and leading teams in food processing, storage, and shipping initiatives.
- Exceptional analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- A highly self-motivated individual capable of working autonomously with minimal supervision.
- Strong collaborative skills, able to thrive in a team environment across all levels of the organization.
- Experience in cost accounting or financial acumen would be advantageous.
- Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is considered an asset.
- Demonstrated success in optimizing operational efficiencies, including product yields, labor management, and sanitation scores.
- Proven track record of delivering results and operating with a sense of urgency.
This Job has a $1,000 Referral Reward!
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If you would like to discuss this job opportunity in 100% confidentiality with a Joe Produce Search Consultant, please call Recruiting at 855-563-7763, or email recruiting@joeproduce.com |
Our company is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state or federal law.
This policy applies with regard to all aspects of one’s employment, including hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation, eligibility for benefits and termination.
