Plant Operations Manager

Senior Manager Leading Plant OperationsProvide leadership and management of operating departments within the plant in areas such as operations, maintenance, processing, and warehousing functions. Provide direction to managers, supervisors, and employees within the guidelines of standard work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Work closely with plant management and serve as a liaison with corporate functional departments including quality assurance, human resources, accounting, engineering, purchasing, research and development, and risk management. Ensure proper development and training of staff to advance the team and to meet the goals of the company. This would include KPI attainment, efficiency, proper staffing, budgeting, and people development. Provide guidance or direct personnel activities of departments, such as recruitment, hiring, performance evaluations, and salary adjustments using independent judgment within the framework of established human resources policies and practices.This is a single incumbent job found in large and/or complex plants where a senior manager leading plant operations is needed for the facility.Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead operational activities to ensure orders are received, scheduled, produced, and shipped safely, at the lowest cost, and at standards to meet customers' requirements and service level agreements, while maintaining established safety and quality standardsMonitor continuous plant operations in all areas and report deficiencies to plant leadership; identify and resolve operational issues; evaluate current procedures, practices, and precedents for accomplishing plant activities and functions; develop and implement alternative methods of work improvementEnsure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed and maintained for all operational activitiesDevelop, implement and update plant operations for all processes; assist in development and implementation of plant safety programs, KPI goal attention, etc.; utilize strategic planning in determining future needs of the operationReview production costs and take necessary actions to control those costsEnsure that all federal regulations and company policies are understood and followed by supervision and communicated to and understood by all production department employees; advise them of correct interpretation when necessaryConduct meetings with department management to communicate essential policies, plans, or problems affecting operations and employee relations and general company informationMaintain preparation for and participate in all plant inspections by USPH, USDA, and other authorized agencies, utilizing appropriate staffMonitor inventory levels for supplies and equipment and initiate purchases as necessaryPrepare reports and records for management reviewEvaluate the cohesiveness and team spirit of supervision and employees and their awareness of quality performanceManage assigned employees, including recruitment, supervision, scheduling, development, evaluation, and performance management. Understand and effectively apply work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Administer discipline consistently and fairly. Work with Human Resources and plant management to resolve employee grievances.Maintain a visible presence on the floor; actively communicate with employees through shift meetings and informal methods. Maintain and promote positive employee relations in work environmentMaintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all company, state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issuesFollow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all company regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirementsThe requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as requiredEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalentUndergraduate degree in related curriculum preferred8 or more years' experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food and/or beverage manufacturing, with management level experienceProven track record of improved results in the areas of quality, safety, service and cost2 or more years' management experience preferredCertification and/or License – may be required during course of employmentKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesStrong knowledge of manufacturing process flow and importance to process; strong understanding of facility utility infrastructure and its impact to production throughputStrong knowledge of continuous improvement modelsSkill in leadership and coaching; knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel managementKnowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systemsSkill in critical thinking, analysis, mathematical calculations, and statistical evaluationsAble to employ, lead and direct continuous improvement concepts to move site's culture forwardAble to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamworkAble to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)Able to think and use independent judgment in planning and organizing multiple tasks and informationAble to demonstrate strong initiative and follow through on day-to-day responsibilitiesAble to take appropriate steps to find solutions to problemsAble to present options and ideas to current processes or proceduresAble to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalismAble to communicate with various levels of personnel to ensure customers' needs and requirements are metAble to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requestsAble to interpret and apply company policiesAble to adapt and manage to change effectivelyMust be able to read, write and speak EnglishAn Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans