Position Summary:

The Preventative Maintenance Manager will spearhead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of our MRO spare parts inventory system as well as manage a comprehensive preventative maintenance program across all facility assets. This role is critical in ensuring the availability and optimization of spare parts for our manufacturing operations, directly impacting our ability to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in maintenance management within the food manufacturing industry, with a proven track record of improving maintenance operations through effective preventative program management. Additionally, experience successfully transforming inventory management programs within the food manufacturing sector, skilled in leveraging technology to transform and streamline both physical inventory processes and inventory systems is also preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Responsible for authoring, adherence, and quality of detailed preventative maintenance plans. This role will be primarily responsible for the OEE metric as a flagship indicator of success.

1. Strategic Program Leadership: Design and implement a best-in-class MRO spare parts inventory management program that supports the operational excellence and sustainability goals of La Colombe. Also, design and implement a comprehensive preventative maintenance program that aligns with industry best practices and company objectives. Develop strategies to optimize inventory levels, improve parts availability, and reduce carrying costs and production downtime.

1. Inventory Optimization: Utilize advanced inventory management techniques and tools to analyze and optimize the spare parts inventory. Ensure the right balance between inventory availability and cost-efficiency, minimizing stockouts and excess inventory.

1. MRO Management: Oversee all aspects of Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) activities, including inventory management, vendor relationships, and procurement of maintenance supplies and equipment.

1. Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to equipment reliability, maintenance efficiency, and cost savings. Use data-driven insights to continually optimize the preventative maintenance program.

1. Team Leadership: Lead, train, and develop a team of maintenance professionals. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence within the team.

1. Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, quality, and environmental regulations. Promote a safety-first culture within the maintenance team and across all maintenance activities.

1. Collaboration: Work closely with production, quality, and engineering teams to coordinate maintenance activities and minimize impact on production schedules. Engage with external vendors and suppliers to secure high-quality services and materials at competitive prices.

1. Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve inventory processes and systems. Implement best practices in inventory management, leveraging technology to enhance visibility, accuracy, and efficiency.

1. Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with maintenance, procurement, and operations teams to forecast demand for spare parts accurately and ensure alignment with production schedules and maintenance plans.

1. Vendor and Stakeholder Management: Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders. Negotiate contracts and manage supplier performance to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality spare parts at competitive prices.

1. Data Analysis and Reporting: Implement robust data collection and analysis methods to track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), inventory levels, and cost savings. Use insights to drive decision-making and program improvements.

1. Change Management: Lead change management efforts related to the implementation and ongoing management of the MRO spare parts inventory program. Communicate effectively with all levels of the organization to gain buy-in and ensure smooth adoption of new processes and systems.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in preventative maintenance and inventory management, with a focus on MRO spare parts in the food manufacturing industry, including at least 3 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience in transforming inventory management systems and preventative maintenance processes, with significant, measurable improvements in efficiency, cost reduction, and service level performance.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in inventory or maintenance management software and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and lead cross-functional teams.
• Solid understanding of supply chain management principles, preventative maintenance, forecasting, and procurement strategies.

Travel Requirement:

• Travel up to 15% of time.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable standing, walking, and moving around the warehouse for long periods.
• Capability to work in various environmental conditions (e.g., cold, heat, dust).

Work Environment:

• · This role typically works in a warehouse and/or production facility and outdoors as required, which may involve exposure to various weather conditions and physical demands.