Director of Operations

SC - Florence Facility 2557 Florence Harllee Blvd Florence, SC 29506, USA Ruiz Foods has been family owned since 1964, is one of the largest Hispanic‑owned companies in the country and is the proud maker of two #1 brands: El Monterey frozen Mexican food and Tornados roller grill taquitos in grocery stores and convenience stores across the US and Canada. Are you looking for career development opportunities in an exciting company that cares about its team members and consumers alike? Come join our team and help us continue our industry‑leading track record of growth, quality, and delicious food! The Director of Operations is fully accountable for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the Florence manufacturing facility. This role has direct responsibility for Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation, with Shipping/Receiving under dotted‑line accountability. The Director of Operations leads the site’s operational strategy and execution, ensuring the achievement of key performance objectives related to food safety, quality, service, cost, labor, and asset reliability while building a strong leadership bench and high‑performance culture. COMPENSATION: $220,000 - $250,000/Year DOE, Bonus Eligible RESPONSIBILITIES Direct all plant manufacturing activities to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets. Establish and execute annual operating plans and multi‑year capacity strategies. Ensure equipment capability and asset reliability. Lead startup and integration of new production lines and technologies. Build, develop, and retain a high‑performing leadership team. Drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Oversee hiring, performance management, and succession planning. Develop and manage operating budgets, capital plans and the execution of short/long‑term manufacturing plans. Forecast operating costs and drive cost reduction initiatives. Ensure compliance with USDA, FDA, OSHA, and company standards. Maintain audit readiness and lead corrective actions. Partner with Engineering, R&D, Supply Chain, HR, and Finance. Serve as key internal and external contact. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Business, or related discipline. MBA a plus. Required: Minimum of 10 years’ experience in a USDA, frozen/refrigerated food manufacturing environment. Mexican handheld food product experience a plus. Proven ability to lead multi‑line operations and address equipment needs to ensure plant efficiencies. Strong communication skills both verbal and written. Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Familiarity with M3, EAM and Redzone systems. Strong leadership and management skills capable of coaching and developing a team. Strategic thinker, results‑driven leader that can provide operations expertise to peers and senior management. Financial acumen and executive presence a must. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr