Sr. Kitchen Manager

Job Title: Senior Kitchen Manager

Reports To: Senior Group General Manager – Operations

FLSA Status: Exempt

Travel: Up to 50% (Domestic)

Note: This operation runs 24/7, and individual schedules are determined by volume and client needs. Weekend availability is required and the facility is only closed three days each year.

Job Summary:

The Senior Kitchen Manager is responsible for the strategic planning, operational oversight, and performance optimization of the Cheese, Kitchen, Ripening, and R&D departments across multiple facilities. This leadership role is focused on improving processes, reducing costs, ensuring compliance, and collaborating cross-functionally with procurement, product development, and quality assurance teams. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in food production, team leadership, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations Management

• Evaluate the operational and cost performance of all kitchen locations.
• Lead the development and execution of improvement plans focused on cost reduction and efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures and demand planning protocols.
• Forecast material, labor, and overhead costs; identify trends and drive corrective action.

Process Improvement & Vendor Collaboration

• Identify and implement process improvements related to vendor management.
• Collaborate with purchasing and operations teams to drive cost-effective sourcing and process standardization.
• Support the launch of new products by partnering with R&D and Product Development teams on cost, feasibility, and timelines.

Cheese Department Oversight

• Manage day-to-day cheese production operations across locations.
• Oversee the development and continuity of organic system plans.
• Ensure accurate cheese receiving and inventory tracking.
• Lead training and retraining initiatives to ensure team alignment and efficiency.

Ripening Department Oversight

• Oversee all operations and costs related to ripening functions.
• Ensure accurate inventory control and 100% traceability across locations.
• Develop ripening processes to support scalability and compliance.
• Maintain organic system plans and quality assurance protocols.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Partner with finance and accounting to review reports and align performance with P&L goals.
• Provide leadership support and guidance across teams and departments.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field (preferred).
• 5 years of progressive leadership experience in food processing, kitchen production, or operations.
• Demonstrated success in managing multi-site or regional operations.
• Experience with perishable goods, produce, or cheese/fermented products is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with Organic System Plans (OSP) and food safety programs.

Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in MS Office, Excel, and data analysis tools.
• Experience with MRP and WMS systems; SAP experience preferred.
• Knowledge of inventory systems and quality assurance protocols.
• Proficient in Gold Stock or similar ERP systems (preferred).

Competencies

• Strong analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities across diverse teams.
• Ability to manage high-travel schedules and shifting priorities.
• Results-oriented with a hands-on, collaborative leadership style.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Prolonged periods working on a computer.
• Capable of standing and walking in production environments for extended periods.

Work Environment:

• Exposure to food processing and distribution center environments with varying temperature conditions.
• Occasional travel to vendor sites, partner facilities, and kitchen locations.

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