What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Feed position at MKC?
Description
JOB SUMMARY: The Director of Feed is responsible for leading all aspects of the cooperative’s feed division, including strategy development, purchasing, manufacturing, compliance, sales coordination, and profitability. This role oversees feed mill operations, manages supplier and customer relationships, ensures regulatory compliance, and supports member success through high-quality, cost-effective feed products and services. The Director plays a critical role in aligning feed operations with the cooperative’s overall mission, financial goals, and service standards.
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- In-depth knowledge of livestock nutrition, feed formulation, and manufacturing processes
- Experience in feed operations, inventory control, and supply chain logistics
- Solid understanding of federal and state feed regulations (e.g., FDA, FSMA, OSHA)
- Excellent communication, budgeting, and strategic planning skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally with sales, operations, compliance, and finance departments
- Valid driver’s license
Requirements
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT:
- Safety glasses
- Hearing protection
- Steel-toed boots
- Dust mask or respirator (when applicable)
- Hard hat (when required in production or construction zones)
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Feed Science, Agribusiness, or related field preferred
- 5–7 years of experience in feed manufacturing, management, or feed sales
- Prior leadership or director-level experience preferred
- Familiarity with feed formulation software and ERP systems (e.g., Brill, FeedMill Manager)
- HACCP and feed safety training preferred
JOB DUTIES:
- Oversee all feed operations including manufacturing, procurement, quality control, logistics, and staffing
- Develop and implement the strategic business plan for the feed division
- Monitor financial performance and lead initiatives to improve profitability and efficiency
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations concerning feed safety and labeling
- Work with nutritionists, suppliers, and producers to ensure high-quality product formulations
- Oversee purchasing and inventory management to maintain optimal supply levels
- Lead and support the feed sales team in pricing, marketing, and customer retention efforts
- Develop and maintain relationships with key customers, vendors, and industry partners
- Direct maintenance planning and capital improvement projects for feed facilities
- Prepare reports, budgets, and forecasts for executive management
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Office-based with regular on-site presence at feed mills and customer locations
- Exposure to dust, noise, and grain/feed handling equipment in manufacturing environments
- Regular travel between locations and to customer sites required
- Must be able to stand, walk, climb stairs, and lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Extended hours and weekend work may be required during peak production or project deadlines