Position SummaryThe Senior Value Stream Manager is a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing end-to-end manufacturing operations across specific production lines and shifts within our Nature's Bakery factory.
You will lead production teams to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality production while managing strategic external relationships. Your blend of operational expertise and partnership management will be critical to the site's ongoing success and growth.
Key ResponsibilitiesRelationship Management- Foster transparent, proactive communication to resolve issues and ensure operational performance meets or exceeds expectations for all parties.
- Support contract negotiations, business planning, and strategic alignment with partners.
- Drive cost-sharing initiatives and identify opportunities for joint process optimization.
- Lead structured governance routines with partner leadership, including performance reviews and recovery planning.
- Ensure site execution aligns with service level agreements and commercial commitments.
Operational Leadership- Direct production teams across multiple lines and shifts, ensuring products are manufactured safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.
- Implement daily governance and rapid escalation protocols to maintain operational stability.
- Collaborate with engineering and operations to optimize line performance and achieve design capacity.
- Oversee capacity planning, equipment utilization, maintenance, and scheduling to maximize productivity.
- Champion the Nature's Bakery Operating System, ensuring all operational procedures are current and effective.
- Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence.
Team Leadership & Development- Recruit, train, and mentor associates to build a high-performing, engaged workforce.
- Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and alignment with Nature's Bakery's core values.
- Develop talent pipelines and succession plans to ensure future leadership continuity.
Quality, Safety & Compliance- Ensure all products meet or exceed quality and food safety standards.
- Lead ongoing quality and food safety improvement initiatives.
- Prepare for and support regulatory and third-party audits, maintaining full compliance with industry standards.
Site Leadership & Crisis Management- Collaborate with site leadership to develop and execute both short- and long-term strategic plans.
- Identify and recommend new technologies and process improvements to maintain site competitiveness and operational excellence.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field required; MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years' progressive leadership experience in manufacturing, with a preference for food production environments.
- Demonstrated expertise in continuous improvement methodologies and problem-solving.
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and audit processes (FSMA/PCQI certification preferred).
