Our Fortune 200 dairy client is seeking an Operation Manager for a central Minnesota manufacturing facility near St. Cloud.
This important position will report to the Plant Manager and manage a 24x7 operation mentoring, coaching and training team members to develop effective and efficient teams.
Collaborates with Plant Steering Team to develop and implement short and long-term strategies, including project leadership, staffing and employee engagement.
This role is responsible for leading a production team comprised of seven salaried reports and over 140 hourly associates with the goal of creating a strong safety culture, positive employee relations & engagement and consistency throughout each of the teams.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :
- Develops and directs programs to ensure the efficient and cost-effective operation and utilization of facility assets.
- Manages safety, quality, service, and cost performance within assigned area.
- Makes recommendations to senior management on long range labor strategies and capital equipment needs.
- Develops and implements recommendations to change systems, policies, and procedures; ensures timely and accurate implementation.
- Collaborates with Human Resources in employee relations matters and ensures consistent application of policy expectations.
- Implements strategies and tactics that align with department and company vision and goals.
- Develops and maintains operating budget and capital spending plans for assigned area of responsibility.
- Identifies, obtains, and develops staff capabilities needed to consistently meet departmental objectives.
- Ensures industry best practices are applied and employees are trained accordingly.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :
- High school diploma / GED plus 7 plus years of supervisory / management experience in food processing / manufacturing operations with solid progressive leadership experience.
- Strong presentation, communication, training, and interpersonal skills.
- Proven track record of understanding the drivers of product and labor cost variances.
- High speed food manufacturing.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :
- Ten years of supervisory / management experience in cheese or food manufacturing operations with solid progressive leadership experience.
- MBA or master’s degree in engineering, preferred.
- Proven ability to work with all levels and functions within the company.
- Skilled in project management.
- Experience leveraging skills and abilities of front-line employees.
- Knowledge and exposure to TPM, Six Sigma, and various problem-solving methodologies.