Director of Operations

The Plant Director will oversee all aspects of plant operations, ensuring efficient production processes, high-quality product output, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. This role requires a strategic leader with a deep understanding of sausage or meat processing to drive operational excellence and contribute to the growth and success of our company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all plant operations, including production, quality assurance, maintenance, and logistics.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize resource utilization.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust processes as needed to meet production targets and quality standards.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team, including department heads and frontline staff.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback and development opportunities for team members.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations, including OSHA and USDA/FDA guidelines.
• Implement and maintain rigorous safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
• Oversee plant audits and inspections, addressing any non-compliance issues promptly.
• Maintain and enhance quality control processes to ensure product consistency and safety.
• Address any quality issues or recalls efficiently and effectively.
• Collaborate with the quality assurance team to implement best practices and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and manage the plant budget, including capital expenditures and operating expenses.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement cost-control measures without compromising quality.
• Report on financial performance and operational metrics to senior management.
• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans to support company growth and market expansion.
• Identify and implement process improvements, technology upgrades, and innovation initiatives.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as R&D and marketing, to align plant operations with overall business objectives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in plant management within the food and beverage industry, with a strong focus on sausage or meat processing.
• Proven track record of leading large teams, managing complex operations, and driving continuous improvement.
• In-depth knowledge of meat processing technologies, quality control standards, and industry regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a results-oriented mindset.
• Proficiency in plant management software and data analysis tools.