Operations Director jobs in Des Plaines, IL

Farmer’s Fridge makes fruits and vegetables accessible and approachable for everyone. We offer a variety of fresh, healthy, ready-to-eat meals and snacks through our fresh food vending machines, wholesale partners, and our office pantry solution — providing chef-curated meals to customers within seconds. Today, we operate a network of Fridges and partner with clients nationwide in high-foot-traffic areas, such as airports, hospitals, universities, and large office buildings — where there is limited accessibility to fresh, healthy, grab-n-go options.

We care deeply about what we’re creating and aspire to make sure our customers feel that through every touchpoint. This shows up in many ways across the business. We are committed to prioritizing food safety, we are passionate about product quality, we value our employees, we champion the best idea no matter where it comes from, and we’re committed to making an overall positive impact as we scale. 

About this Role:

The Director of Operations at Farmers Fridge is responsible for leading key central operations functions within the organization. This critical role involves spearheading continuous improvement, enhancing production planning, managing operational technology, and standardizing processes. The Director of Operations is instrumental in ensuring operational excellence and efficiency, and aligning these operational facets with the company’s strategic objectives.

What You’ll Do:

• Operations Process Ownership & Improvement: Assume full ownership of operational processes, focusing on their continuous improvement and effectiveness. Develop, refine, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring they are efficient, scalable, and aligned with industry best practices.
• Operational Excellence: Spearhead strategies to achieve operational excellence, optimizing workflow and resource utilization. Monitor operational performance, identify areas for enhancement, and implement solutions that drive efficiency and quality in all aspects of the operation.
• Project Management: Lead and manage key operational projects, overseeing them from conception through to completion. Ensure these projects align with organizational goals, are delivered on time, within budget, and meet or exceed quality expectations.
• Technology Integration in Operations: Oversee the integration and optimization of technology within operations. Evaluate and implement technological advancements that improve process efficiency, enhance product quality, and drive innovation.
• Production Planning: Develop and manage comprehensive production planning strategies. Ensure these plans are robust, adaptive to changing demands, and executed with a focus on maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.
• Continuous Improvement: Champion continuous improvement initiatives within the organization. Utilize lean methodologies and other improvement techniques to streamline processes, reduce costs, and increase overall productivity.
• Cross-functional collaboration: Act as a key liaison between the operations department and other areas of the company. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that operational decisions and changes are well-coordinated and aligned with the needs and goals of the entire organization.

What are we looking for in an Operations Director?

• Extensive experience in operational leadership, preferably within a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Proven track record in implementing and leading continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong background in project management with demonstrable success in managing complex, cross-functional projects.
• Expertise in integrating and optimizing technology within operational processes.
• Proficient in advanced production planning techniques and methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability in applying lean manufacturing principles and other efficiency-improving methodologies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
• Strategic thinker with an ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field 
• MBA or relevant advanced degree.
• Relevant certifications in project management, lean methodology, or Six Sigma are advantageous.

Farmer’s Fridge Diversity Statement:

"Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Farmer’s Fridge, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.”

Benefits at Farmer's Fridge:

In This Together - We stay connected, whether in person or virtually. We encourage business transparency through monthly town hall meetings and weekly financial updates. We set out to make the best product on the market, and we believe we’ve done it. We value your input in the new menu creation process. From regular tasting panels, where employees provide new menu menu feedback. 

Happier Workdays - Each day at work should fill you with joy. We're a fun and passionate group, and we don't take ourselves too seriously. Bring your unique self to work, dress comfortably, and always feel free to share your thoughts and opinions. We encourage curiosity; there's no hierarchy here when we're all swapping ideas.  

Never run on empty - Daily Farmer's Fridge meal and office snacks are just some of the offerings to make sure you aren't distracted by a growling stomach. Recharge with our paid sabbatical program after four years of service. 

Innovate & Elevate - We're all teachers and learners. You'll grow, and help grow the company through cross-functional collaboration, open access to leadership, and regular business updates. You have a direct impact on the company’s bottom line. You can also impact your personal bottom line by participating in our 401(k) plan that includes a company match with immediate vesting.

Farmer’s Fridge is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including hiring, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. View our disclosures related to External Agencies and Applicants below: https://www.farmersfridge.com/careerdisclosures

Farmer’s Fridge Diversity Statement:

"Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Farmer’s Fridge, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.”

Farmer’s Fridge is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including hiring, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. View our disclosures related to External Agencies and Applicants below: https://www.farmersfridge.com/careerdisclosures