Plant Manager

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead a 24/7 whey protein and cheese manufacturing facility. In this role, you will own end ‑ to ‑ end plant operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, food quality, efficiency, and people development. You will set and execute the site operations strategy, align cross ‑ functional resources, and drive continuous improvement to consistently exceed business and customer expectations. This position is a critical leadership role across production, maintenance, warehousing, and engineering, while partnering closely with Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, HR, and Commercial teams. What We Offer A leadership role with operational ownership at a complex, high‑impact manufacturing site The opportunity to influence strategy, performance, and culture in a 24/7 operation A strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement Work on capital projects, advanced dairy processing technologies, and sustainability initiatives A collaborative environment that values respect, accountability, and teamwork Competitive compensation and benefits package As Operations Manager, you will lead operations to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient production in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Key responsibilities include: Championing a zero‑harm safety culture and ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards Developing and executing the site operations strategy, annual plan, and budget aligned with long‑term business objectives Leading production planning and execution to meet demand, optimize capacity, and deliver on‑time, in‑full (OTIF) service Partnering with Maintenance and Engineering to drive asset reliability, preventive maintenance, and shutdown planning Overseeing utilities and environmental performance, including energy and water efficiency Driving continuous improvement initiatives to improve OEE, waste reduction, and productivity Managing operating costs, monitoring KPIs, and delivering performance through data‑driven decision making Leading, developing, and coaching a high‑performing operations team across all shifts Sponsoring capital projects from business case through commissioning and handover Ensuring clear communication and strong collaboration across functions This role reports to the Director of Ingredients North America and may require infrequent domestic or international travel. What We Ask Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Supply Chain, or a related field 10+ years of operations or production leadership experience in food or dairy manufacturing, including at least 5 years in a 24/7, multi‑shift environment Deep knowledge of whey processing and cheese production, including UF/MF, pasteurization, evaporation, spray drying, and packaging Strong working knowledge of cGMP, HACCP, sanitation, and OSHA/EPA requirements Proven ability to lead Lean or Six Sigma initiatives and improve OEE, yield, cost, and service Solid financial acumen, including budgeting and CAPEX management Excellent leadership, communication, and cross‑functional influencing skills Preferred qualifications Master’s degree in Business, Operations, or a related discipline Experience managing ammonia refrigeration, boilers/steam, utilities, and wastewater systems Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification Experience in SQF/BRC or other GFSI‑certified environments Behave in alignment with FrieslandCampina values We Act With Respect We Aim Higher We Succeed Together We are an equal opportunity employer. FrieslandCampina expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under the law. #J-18808-Ljbffr