Operations Manager

Company Description

Janie’s Mill is a farmer-owned, certified organic flour mill located in Ashkum, Illinois. We mill organic grains for discerning home and professional bakers, chefs, and distillers in the region. Learn more about our history, philosophy, practices, and products on our website at janiesmill.com.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Operations Manager to oversee daily operations across Retail Production, Retail & Wholesale Fulfillment, Retail Shop Operations, and Inventory Management. This role is responsible for ensuring operational efficiency, product quality, inventory accuracy, and exceptional customer service while leading cross-functional teams and supporting company growth.

The ideal candidate is a proactive leader with strong operational, analytical, and communication skills who thrives in a fast-paced production environment. The Operations Manager is an on-site, full-time, salaried position, and reports directly to the owners of Janie’s Mill.

Key Responsibilities

Retail Production Oversight

• Oversee day-to-day retail production operations to ensure efficiency, consistency, quality, and timely output.
• Develop and maintain production schedules aligned with retail and wholesale demand.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize yield.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and tracking of finished goods in compliance with food safety standards.

Retail & Wholesale Fulfillment

• Oversee order fulfillment operations for both retail and wholesale customers.
• Ensure accurate, timely picking, packing, shipping, and delivery coordination.
• Establish and maintain fulfillment procedures that improve speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor shipping costs, carrier performance, and operational KPIs.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and support the Retail Lead and Wholesale Accounts & Distribution Lead and their teams. Including the Retail Shop, Retail Production, Retail Fulfillment, Wholesale Fulfillment, and Wholesale Accounts teams.
• Recruit, train, and develop staff to maintain high performance and adherence to operational and safety standards.
• Foster a positive work environment focused on collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide coaching to direct reports and team members.

Operational Efficiency

• Maintain Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to support accounting, inventory management, and production operations.
• Implement systems and procedures to improve inventory accuracy.
• Oversee electronic data management systems to ensure efficiency and data security.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, including food safety, labor laws, and cybersecurity protocols.
• Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure and improve operational efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, cost reduction, and workflow optimization.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges, ensuring seamless coordination across departments.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by ensuring team members receive the resources and support needed for professional development.
• Manage operational contracts and negotiations with delivery service providers and utilities.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Operations Management, or related field preferred
• Experience: 3 years in food production, business management, or a related field
• Leadership: proven ability to lead, train, and develop a team in a multi-functional work environment
• Organizational Skills: ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Technical Knowledge: experience with POS systems, ERP Software, inventory management systems, and e-commerce platforms
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and operational reporting tools

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout warehouse environments for extended periods.
• Ability to lift (up to 50lbs) and move inventory and materials as needed.
• Ability to work in warehouse conditions, fluctuating temperatures, and dusty environments (flour dust).

Preferred Skills

• Experience in both retail and wholesale operations.
• Knowledge of production planning and warehouse logistics.
• Data-driven mindset with experience analyzing operational metrics and KPIs.
• Ability to develop scalable systems and processes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence.

Job Type: Full-time
H-1B sponsorship is not available

Pay: $65,500.00 - $83,500.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $65,500 - $83,500