Operations Manager

Position: Operations Manager
Reports to: Plant Manager
Direct/Indirect Reports: ~200

Role Overview

The Operations Manager will oversee day-to-day plant operations, leading a team of technicians and managers to achieve excellence in safety, quality, productivity, and cost efficiency. This role requires a strong leader who can inspire and develop talent, drive continuous improvement, and partner cross-functionally to deliver business results. Serving as a key advisor to the Plant Manager, this leader will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the plant’s workforce and operational systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of managers and technicians to ensure compliance with safety, sanitation, and quality standards.

• Drive the development and implementation of manufacturing systems that improve productivity, quality, and cost effectiveness.

• Facilitate, educate, motivate, coach, and guide the manufacturing team to achieve results.

• Advance and sustain continuous improvement initiatives.

• Manage employee and labor relations issues to support operational success.

• Define and communicate a clear vision for an effective work system and guide the workforce toward that vision.

• Oversee production scheduling and training functions.

• Ensure business-critical information is effectively communicated across the operation.

• Track performance against KPIs and leverage data to guide decisions.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of goods, materials, and ingredients.

• Serve as a trusted advisor and sounding board to the Plant Manager when evaluating alternatives and new ideas.

• Ensure employees understand the operation’s vision and progress toward goals.

• Effectively manage the operations budget.

• Own and lead an Operational Excellence Pillar.

• Identify, coach, and develop current and future leaders.

What We’re Looking For

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree.

• At least 5 years of manufacturing experience. Food manufacturing highly preferred.

• Proven ability to build and develop future leaders.

• Lean knowledge with a strong understanding of a structured TPM pillar environment.

• Experience working in a union environment.

• Demonstrated ability to balance production demands with product quality.