Director of Operations

Reports To:  VP of Operations

Supervisory Requirements:  Yes

Location: Chicago

FLSA Status: Exempt, Full-Time

Base Salary range for this position: $230,000-$250,000

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Operations (Manufacturing) is responsible for overseeing the efficient and cost-effective operation of V&V Supremo’s manufacturing facilities in Illinois and Wisconsin. This role ensures production goals are met while maintaining high quality and safety standards. The Director will lead process improvements, optimize resources, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive operational excellence and support the company’s growth objectives.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

·        Lead and oversee daily manufacturing operations to meet production goals and quality standards.

·        Lead continuous improvement initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce costs.

·        Develop and manage production schedules, resource allocation, and workforce planning.

·        Ensure compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards.

·        Manage all aspects of the production facility, including production planning, quality control, inventory management and maintenance.

·        Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational effectiveness.

·        Manage departmental budgets to ensure cost efficiency.

·        Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork within the manufacturing team.

·        Work on-site across all plant locations

KEY ACTIVITES

·        Monitor and adjust production schedules to ensure timely delivery of products.

·        Analyze production data to identify inefficiencies and implement corrective actions.

·        Lead cross-functional teams to address operational challenges and improve performance.

·        Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

·        Train and develop manufacturing staff i.e plant managers, and other operational leaders fostering skill development and growth.

·        Manage supplier relationships to ensure consistent material availability and quality.

·        Review and approve operational budgets, focusing on cost control and resource optimization.

·        Implement new technologies and manufacturing techniques to enhance productivity.

·        Prepare regular reports on operational performance, KPIs, and cost savings for senior leadership.

CORE COMPETENCIES

·        Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to inspire, lead, and develop high-performing teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

·        Deep expertise in optimizing manufacturing processes, driving efficiency, and leading continuous improvement initiatives.

·        Strong capability to analyze complex data, make data-driven decisions, and implement effective solutions to operational challenges.

·        Advanced knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies to maximize productivity and reduce waste.

·        Expertise in budget management, cost control, and resource allocation to ensure profitability and operational sustainability.

·        In-depth understanding of industry safety regulations and the ability to maintain high standards of quality and compliance.

·        Ability to work effectively across departments, including Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, and Maintenance, to drive operational success.

·        Skilled in identifying, implementing, and leveraging new technologies and automation to enhance manufacturing capabilities.

·        Competency in corporate governance, change management, strategic leadership, and business analysis.

·        Proven ability to lead teams through change, ensuring smooth transitions and alignment with strategic goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

·        Bachelor’s degree in business or another relevant field.

·        10 years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 7 years in a leadership role, preferably in the food or dairy industry.

·        Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies.

·        Proven track record of managing large-scale operations and teams.

·        Ability to analyze and interpret operational data to drive performance improvements.

·        Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams.

·        Preferred: 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple manufacturing facilities and directing plant managers across diverse operations

WORK ENVIROMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment for this role is typically an office setting, with most tasks performed at a desk using a computer. Daily responsibilities involve extended periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse for data entry, analysis, and report generation. Occasional need to lift or carry documents or files weighing up to 15 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

V&V Supremo Foods is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing a fair and inclusive environment where all employees and applicants have equal opportunities to succeed