OPERATIONS MANAGER

SUMMARY: The 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: Lead daily manufacturing operations across cheese and cream production, ensuring attainment of production targets and service levels Serve as acting site leader in the absence of the Site Director, ensuring continuity of operations and decision-making Drive execution discipline across production planning, scheduling, and line performance Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and manufacturing best practices Own 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 standards Ensure all food safety and quality programs (GMPs, HACCP, SQF) are followed and embedded in daily operations Lead and develop a team to include Production Managers, Clean in Place (CIP) Sanitation Manager Build 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 Foods Ensure alignment on production plans, material availability, and finished goods flow Collaborate to resolve operational issues and improve end-to-end performance Drive Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste Identify and execute initiatives to improve throughput, reduce downtime, and optimize labor utilization Support delivery of plant financial targets, including conversion cost and cost of goods sold (COGS) performance QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE Bachelor'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 production Minimum five 5+ years of leadership experience in plant operations or production management Strong 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 methodologies Strong financial and operational acumen, including cost management and productivity improvement Proven ability to lead in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment Operational execution & accountability; leadership & team development; problem solving & root cause analysis #J-18808-Ljbffr Cacique Foods, LLC.