Operations Manager

Job Title: Operations Manager

Drive Excellence in a Leading Dairy Manufacturing Facility

Our Fortune 200 dairy client is looking for a dynamic Operations Manager to lead their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in central Minnesota, near St. Cloud. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to mentor, coach, and train a dedicated team in a 24x7 operation, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and employee engagement. As a key member of the leadership team, you will collaborate with the Plant Steering Team to shape and execute both short- and long-term strategies, driving success in all aspects of plant operations.

Why This Role Is Exciting: This is more than just a management position—it's a chance to make a significant impact on a large-scale operation. You'll lead a production team that includes seven salaried reports and over 140 hourly associates, with the goal of building strong, cohesive teams that deliver exceptional results. Your leadership will help shape the future of the facility, ensuring it remains a leader in the dairy industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Optimize Operations: Develop and lead programs that ensure efficient, cost-effective use of facility assets, driving continuous improvement in safety, quality, service, and cost performance.
• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate with senior management to develop long-range labor strategies and identify capital equipment needs, making recommendations that align with the company’s vision and goals.
• Policy and Procedure Management: Implement and refine systems, policies, and procedures to enhance operational effectiveness, ensuring they are applied consistently across the facility.
• Employee Relations: Work closely with Human Resources to manage employee relations, fostering a positive work environment and ensuring policy expectations are met.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage operating budgets and capital spending plans, ensuring financial goals are met or exceeded.
• Team Development: Identify, recruit, and develop talent within your team, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge needed to meet departmental objectives.
• Best Practices: Ensure industry best practices are implemented and that all employees receive the necessary training to excel in their roles.

Requirements

What You’ll Bring:

• Experience: A high school diploma or GED with at least 7 years of progressive supervisory/management experience in food processing/manufacturing operations. Experience in high-speed food manufacturing is essential.
• Leadership Skills: Proven track record of leading teams and driving improvements in safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Communication: Strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate employees at all levels.
• Analytical Abilities: Deep understanding of the factors that drive product and labor cost variances, with the ability to analyze and act on this information effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced Education: An MBA or a master’s degree in engineering is highly preferred.
• Industry Expertise: Ten years of supervisory/management experience in cheese or food manufacturing operations.
• Project Management: Strong project management skills, with experience in leveraging the skills of front-line employees.
• Continuous Improvement: Knowledge of TPM, Six Sigma, and other problem-solving methodologies, with a track record of applying these in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits

Why Join Us? This role offers the chance to be part of a highly respected Fortune 200 company, with significant opportunities for career growth and development. You’ll be working in a cutting-edge facility, leading a dedicated team, and driving results in a fast-paced, rewarding environment.

If you’re a proven leader with a passion for excellence and a desire to make a tangible impact, we invite you to apply and join us in shaping the future of dairy manufacturing.