Operations Manager

Scope of Position

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating daily manufacturing operations to ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of food products. This role drives operational performance through effective leadership, continuous improvement initiatives, employee development, and cross-functional collaboration. The Operations Manager plays a critical role in achieving production goals, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture centered on safety, quality, accountability, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for all plant production operations to ensure operational goals, customer expectations, and quality standards are consistently achieved.
• Champion workplace safety by enforcing safety programs, policies, Lockout/Tagout procedures, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste, and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Lead, coach, and develop production supervisors and frontline employees to build a high-performing and engaged workforce.
• Monitor production processes, identify operational bottlenecks, and implement effective solutions to improve efficiency and performance.
• Develop and manage production schedules while coordinating with maintenance teams to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability.
• Manage departmental budgets and monitor operational expenses to support financial objectives.
• Ensure compliance with GMPs, food safety programs, sanitation standards, and all company policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular production floor audits and line reviews to ensure operational standards and standard work practices are maintained.
• Support employee performance management, including coaching, training, evaluations, corrective actions, and development planning.
• Promote a collaborative team environment that supports safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of operational documentation and reporting requirements.
• Communicate effectively with plant leadership and cross-functional teams regarding production performance, staffing, and operational priorities.
• Support and lead plant audit readiness for corporate, customer, and regulatory inspections.
• Assume leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Plant Manager as needed.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing or production operations required.
• Strong understanding of food manufacturing processes, GMPs, food safety, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies preferred.
• Experience leading teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  
  

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Proven ability to drive operational performance and achieve production goals.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Effective organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and operational expenses.
• Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and foster a positive team culture.
  
  

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work environment includes both office and manufacturing settings.
• Regular exposure to cold, wet, humid, and loud production environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including periodic off-shift support as needed.