Vice President Operations

The Opportunity Cloverland Dairy is a leading independent dairy producer serving grocers, foodservice distributors, school systems, and convenience retailers across the Mid-Atlantic.Founded in 1919 and operating from a Baltimore plant, the business is recapitalizing under new, well-capitalized ownership committed to a long-term hold and is repositioning around its highest-value product lines. We are hiring a Vice President of Operations to run day-to-day production and take ownership of throughput, quality, safety, and cost on the plant floor.This is a hands-on leadership role at the center of the turnaround: fresh fluid milk, extended shelf-life (ESL) dairy and cream, cultured products, and juices all run through operations you will lead.Reports to the CEO. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Operations Management Oversee daily operations across UHT and ESL to ensure efficiency, productivity, sanitation standards, and cost-effectiveness.Mastery of Pasteurized Milk Ordinance and operation of a dairy manufacturing. Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures to support business goals. Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement. Manage budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning for operational departments. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and enhance workflow. Distribution Management Lead the distribution strategy to ensure timely and accurate delivery of products to customers. Optimize supply chain logistics, including inventory management, transportation, and warehousing. Establish and maintain relationships with distributors, suppliers, and logistics partners. Implement systems to track and improve distribution performance and customer satisfaction. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards in distribution practices. Quality Assurance Develop and enforce quality assurance protocols to maintain product integrity and safety. Oversee quality control processes, including testing, inspections, and audits. Address and resolve quality issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions as needed. Stay updated on industry quality standards and regulatory requirements. Support and adhere to the Company’s SQF program. Foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement across all departments. Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team across operations, distribution, and quality assurance. Promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation and accountability. Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback and training opportunities. Align team objectives with overall business goals and ensure clear communication of expectations. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 8+ years of progressive plant operations leadership in dairy, food/beverage processing, or a comparable continuous-process, high-throughput manufacturing environment. Leadership: Proven track record of leading and managing cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment. Technical Skills: Strong understanding of supply chain logistics, quality management systems, and operational best practices.Strong understanding of equipment and processes, including HTST pasteurization process, membrane system filtration (UHT & ESL). Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization. Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to addressing challenges and implementing solutions. Certifications: Relevant certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, PMP, HACCP) are a plus. Skills: Financial Acumen and Budget Management Team Leadership and Development Process Improvement and Efficiency Customer Focus and Service Excellence Adaptability and Resilience Technological Proficiency (ERP systems, Quality Management Software) Work Schedule Monday - Friday Must be willing to work off hours, weekends and take after hours phone calls . 100% on-site Compensation Competitive base salary plus a performance bonus tied to operational and turnaround milestones, with equity/incentive participation available for the right candidate.We want operators who think like owners.Details discussed with serious candidates. We offer a competitive benefit pack to include medical, dental and vision benefits for single and family coverage is available on the 1st of the month following 60 days of employment.The cost is 100% company paid.Additional benefits include short-term disability, basic life insurance, paid time off and 401(k). Cloverland Dairy is an equal opportunity employer.All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. As a condition of employment applicants offered a position will be required to successfully pass our pre-employment background screen, receive a negative drug screen result, and confirm eligibility to work in the U.S. We participate in E-Verify. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cloverland / Greenspring Dairy