Production Manager

Production ManagerThe Production Manager is responsible for leading the daily production operations of the facility, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality manufacturing processes across all production areas. Depending on facility operations, this may include milk intake, cheesemaking, packaging, conversion, prep, affinage, and other production support functions. This role is responsible for achieving operational objectives through effective production planning, employee development, continuous improvement initiatives, food safety compliance, and strong cross-functional collaboration.Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead daily production operations with a focus on employee safety, food safety, product quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.Execute production plans to meet customer demand, inventory requirements, and supply chain objectives.Monitor and drive performance against established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, yield, and schedule attainment.Partner with Supply Chain, Quality, Maintenance, Warehouse, and other functional teams to ensure operational goals are achieved.Identify, communicate, and resolve production, quality, and operational issues while implementing corrective and preventive actions.Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality, sanitation, and regulatory requirements, including FDA, HACCP, GMP, OSHA, and company standards.Support inventory accuracy, production planning, and ERP system integrity.Champion Emmi Operational Excellence initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement throughout the facility.Analyze production data and operational metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement, waste reduction, and cost savings.Coach, develop, and motivate supervisors and production employees while promoting a culture of accountability, engagement, and teamwork.Conduct regular department and supervisor meetings to communicate production performance, business updates, safety initiatives, and key priorities.Ensure consistent adherence to all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.Support the development and management of operating budgets, labor plans, and capital improvement projects in partnership with the Plant Manager.Monitor departmental spending and address budget variances through effective planning and corrective action.Lead workforce planning activities including interviewing, hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, employee development, recognition, and corrective action.Serve as a hands-on leader and provide operational support to supervisors and production teams as needed.Support succession planning and employee development initiatives to strengthen organizational capability.Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all employee, operational, and business matters.Participate in strategic initiatives that support operational growth, efficiency improvements, and long-term business objectives.QualificationsRequired qualifications, skills, and experience for the job; education background, certifications, relevant work experience, technical skills, and soft skills.Associate degree in Business, Operations Management, Food Science, Engineering, or a related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered.Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive manufacturing leadership experience, preferably within food manufacturing, dairy, cheese production, or consumer packaged goods.Experience supervising production teams and leading front-line leaders in a manufacturing environment.Proven leadership skills with the ability to develop, coach, and motivate teams.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.Working knowledge of food manufacturing processes, quality systems, and food safety requirements.Experience utilizing ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications; JD Edwards experience preferred.Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and drive continuous improvement efforts.Experience working effectively within cross-functional teams.Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing business needs and operational priorities.BenefitsMedical, Dental, & Vision InsuranceBasic Life InsuranceVoluntary Life InsuranceFlexible spending accounts & Health Savings Accounts401k Retirement PlanPaid HolidaysPaid VacationEmployee Assistance ProgramShort term/Long term disabilityVolunteer time off (VTO)Tuition ReimbursementPet insurance