OPERATIONS MANAGER

Operations ManagerThe Operations Manager provides direct leadership to production and sanitation teams and works cross-functionally to align operations with broader site and supply chain objectives. This role requires a hands-on leader with strong manufacturing expertise, proven ability to improve plant performance and a track record of developing teams in a fast paced environment.Key Responsibilities:Operational Leadership & Performance Management KPIsLead daily manufacturing operations across cheese and cream production, ensuring attainment of production targets and service levelsServe as acting site leader in the absence of the Site Director, ensuring continuity of operations and decision-makingDrive execution discipline across production planning, scheduling, and line performanceEnsure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and manufacturing best practicesOwn and drive key operational metrics including; quality and food safety compliance; yield and waste reduction; labor productivity; conversion cost performance; safety metrics (OSHA, incident rates)Monitor performance daily and implement corrective actions to address gaps.Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving to improve plant performance and reduce variability.Champion a "Safety First" culture and ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standardsEnsure all food safety and quality programs (GMPs, HACCP, SQF) are followed and embedded in daily operationsPeople Leadership & Cross-Functional CollaborationLead and develop a team to include Production Managers, Clean in Place (CIP) Sanitation ManagerBuild a high-performing, accountable culture focused on safety, quality, and results.Drive talent development, training, and succession planning within operations.Ensure appropriate staffing, performance management, and employee engagement.Partner closely with all departments within Cacique FoodsEnsure alignment on production plans, material availability, and finished goods flowCollaborate to resolve operational issues and improve end-to-end performanceContinuous Improvement & Cost OptimizationDrive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce wasteIdentify and execute initiatives to improve throughput, reduce downtime, and optimize labor utilizationSupport delivery of plant financial targets, including conversion cost and cost of goods sold (COGS) performanceQualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in operations, Engineering, Food Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)Minimum eight (8–12) twelve years of manufacturing experience, preferably in dairy or food productionMinimum five 5+ years of leadership experience in plant operations or production managementStrong knowledge of dairy manufacturing processes (cheese and/or cream preferred)Demonstrated success driving operational KPIs (quality, yield, cost, safety)Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologiesStrong financial and operational acumen, including cost management and productivity improvementProven ability to lead in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environmentOperational execution & accountability; leadership & team development; problem solving & root cause analysisAgile, dynamic and forward thinkingPhysical Demands & Work Environment:Required to maneuver plant and warehouse workspaces which involve:Frequently standing, walking, sitting, talking, or hearing, work around loud machinery and moving partsContinually utilize hand and finger dexterity, continually exposed to extreme heat, extreme cold, wet and/or humid conditions (non-weather)Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, exposed to outside weather conditions, and push, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds safelyThe above is intended to describe the general content and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.