Head of Operations

Job Title: Head of OperationsLocation: TBDReports to: CEODepartment: Operations Employment Type: Full-TimeJob Summary:We are a leading supplier of high-quality ingredients serving the pet food and human food industries. With a global sourcing network and a strong focus on sustainability, quality, and customer partnership, we trade, process, and deliver premium raw materials to some of the most recognized brands in the sector.We are entering an exciting phase of growth and transformation and are seeking a dynamic Head of Operations to lead our production and operational excellence initiatives. The Head of Operations will be responsible for all operational activities across processing facilities, quality management.The focus of this role is on delivering world-class operational performance — ensuring that materials sourced and traded by the commercial team are processed, stored, and delivered safely, efficiently, and profitably.Key Responsibilities:Operational LeadershipLead and oversee all processing facilities, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and efficiency.Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business growth and customer service objectives.Ensure all production and logistics operations meet internal quality standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals.Maintain strong alignment and communication with commercial and finance teams to ensure smooth execution of business plans.Processing & ProductionOversee day-to-day plant operations, capacity planning, and production scheduling.Drive continuous improvement across manufacturing processes to optimize throughput, yield, and cost.Implement and maintain robust maintenance, safety, and hygiene programs across all facilities.Raw Material LogisticsManage coordination of inbound raw materials, ensuring timely and accurate receipt of ingredients sourced by the commercial team.Oversee intake processes, including scheduling, unloading, and initial quality verification of incoming materials.Ensure raw-material handling, storage, and internal movement support production needs and maintain product integrity.Collaborate with commercial teams and suppliers to resolve inbound delivery issues and maintain service reliability.Oversee the company’s quality and technical functions, ensuring compliance with all relevant feed and food standardsDrive a culture of continuous improvement in product integrity, traceability, and customer satisfaction.Support sustainability initiatives by optimizing resource usage and reducing waste throughout the supply chain.Quality, Compliance & SustainabilityLeadership & People DevelopmentLead and develop a multi-site team including site managers, supply chain leaders, and quality professionals.Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across all operational areas.Strategic & Continuous Improvement InitiativesIdentify and implement operational improvement projects, including digitalization, automation, and ERP optimization.Partner with leadership to evaluate and integrate new sites, technologies, or capacity expansions.Support strategic business initiatives by ensuring operational readiness and scalability.Qualifications and Skills:Bachelor's degree in Agribusiness, Supply Chain, Procurement, or related field.Minimum of 10 years of experience in agricultural ingredients operations.Experience in the pet food industryStrong understanding of agricultural supply chains, seasonal availability, perishability, and global sourcing.Proven negotiation skills and experience in contract management.Excellent analytical, forecasting, and decision-making abilities.Strong interpersonal and communication skills with cross-functional collaboration.Experience working with growers, co-ops, and agricultural trading companies.Ability to travel up to 50%#hc211687