Why Russell Stover?

Russell Stover Chocolates is a leader in the manufacturer of boxed chocolates. The company’s three brands – Russell Stover, Whitman’s and Pangburn’s - are sold throughout the United States in company-owned retail stores and 70,000 wholesale accounts. After nearly 100 years in operation the company manufactures approximately 100 million pounds of chocolate candies each year in its proud tradition of being “Made in America” and “Handcrafted in Small Batches”.

In September 2014, Russell Stover Chocolates was acquired by Lindt and Sprungli, the world leader in premium chocolates.This was the largest acquisition in the history of Lindt and Sprungli which has operations in over 40 countries across the globe. Russell Stover Chocolates joins sister companies Lindt USA and Ghirardelli to form a powerful confectionery triad in North America.

Position Purpose:

The individual in this position is responsible for leading and directing activities of all production at the Corsicana manufacturing facility. Ensuring domestically manufactured or packaged products are produced in the quantities required by production planning, within designated timeframes, at the most efficient cost without compromising high standards for quality while maintaining a safe work environment.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

Ensuring timely production in appropriate quantity

· Lead the manufacturing staff to identify and develop present and future capacities with respect to manpower as well as machinery to ensure product requirements are met in the most cost efficient manner.

· Ensure production is scheduled to meet production plans and that schedules are executed effectively and on time.

· Ensure reporting of all output levels is accurate and within the manufacturing systems

· Establish and maintain an organized system, optimize processes and methods to ensure maximum and steady output, increase efficiency and reduce waste.

· Initiates and coordinates major projects (e.g., plant layout changes, installation of capital equipment, major repairs, etc.).

· Perform miscellaneous duties and projects as assigned and required.

· Propose, facilitate and close out capital projects to improve overall performance of equipment

Ensure compliance to company policy, procedures and safety regulations

· Establish and maintain effective working relationships with functional support departments to ensure timely communication, proper operational execution and company policies and standards are met.

· Develop and ensure adherence to standard procedures concerning processes and tasks inter and intra departmentally.

· Establish and maintain effective communication of company goals and relevant information to employees in department.

· Develop and encourage effective working relationships within department.

· Ensure safety programs are followed and in place, and effectively executed in order to minimize accidents and company liability. Ensure safety program compliance and employee awareness is followed per the company guidelines and KPIs

· Hire, train, motivate and develop staff to ensure optimal production results and establish solid, managerial bench strength within the manufacturing facility.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Experience:

Required

• 8-10 years experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in a process-oriented operation and/or related industry

• 5 years food/quality/safety experience in manufacturing environment
• Proven experience in continuous manufacturing using lean tools (5S, TPM, Six sigma or similar)

Skills & Knowledge:

• Proven knowledge of food quality standards, federal state and local regulations
• Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP
• Understanding of analytical testing, sensory methods, food microbiology, IPM (integrated pest management)
• Strong interpersonal, managerial and leadership skills required, strong focus on accountability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work with individuals at all levels within the organization.

Education:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial, mechanical, food science or business administration.

Preferred

• MS degree in engineering or ,food science or business preferred
• Formal training in engineering standards “Lean” ,sanitation, food, safety, regulatory
• Second language (Spanish) a plus

Other Requirements:

• Weekend work may be required

This job description is not exhaustive and the Company reserves the right to adjust the job description as well as ask employees to undertake additional or different job responsibilities. Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, pregnancy, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other legally-protected status. Applicants for this position must successfully pass a background screening and may be required to pass drug screenings.