Direct and manage all plant operations (blending, production, maintenance, & on-line quality); facilitate the maximization of resources (human and automated) to achieve customer satisfaction, productivity, schedule adherence and economic goals. Insure effective team development of the operations function through performance management processes. Serve as a key member of the local senior leadership team and of the operations network across the system in developing our functional capability.  Support and promote food safety and quality program initiatives within the plant environment. 

 Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Direct, coordinate and facilitate the daily activities of direct reports to ensure the achievement of production goals and customer expectations in a safe, timely, cost-effective manner.
• Ensure standards for product quality, equipment, and operator performance are maintained and that cost-effective technology is used to maximize production. Ensure fixed assets are preserved.  
• Develop departmental budget, monitor plant spending, and report on operating costs within functional areas.  
• Work effectively with plant functional managers to develop and maintain a positive employee relations environment.  Advise management team on labor issues including safety, security, employee relations, scheduling, training, grievances and the like. 
• Serve as key member of the plant leadership team in developing the plant’s strategic direction, establishing priorities
  and allocating resources.
• Works in conjunction with EHS to ensure that environmental compliance activities and requirements are met. 
• Influences all staff to report food safety issues to personnel with authority to initiate immediate corrective actions.

Knowledge, Skills and Ability Requirements:

• BS/BA in business administration, industrial engineering or related major or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 to 10 years’ experience in management/supervisory role in manufacturing plants in the food/beverage industry.
• Possess a strong working knowledge of TPM including autonomous maintenance.
• Understand line loss analysis with capability of building long range plans to improve line performance.
• Excel at root cause and correction action processes.
• Works well with management, peers and subordinates.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent understanding of manufacturing operations.
• Strong ability to influence, provide leadership, work in a team environment or independently.
• Able to interact effectively with all levels of the organization.
• Preference given to those with the ability and willingness to relocate to next level within 2-3 years.
• Ability to travel as needed.