Carter Support Services
Overview
We are seeking a strategic, results-driven General Manager to lead all aspects of operations at our ice cream manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in frozen dessert production , combined with proven leadership across plant operations, quality, safety, and continuous improvement .
This role is accountable for ensuring the facility delivers on production goals, food safety standards, and cost targets — while fostering a high-performing culture centered on quality, collaboration, and innovation.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all functions within the ice cream manufacturing plant, including production, quality, maintenance, sanitation, and warehousing
- Ensure full compliance with food safety regulations and certifications (FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF, GMP)
- Oversee production planning, batching, freezing, and packaging to meet volume, quality, and delivery targets
- Drive operational excellence through KPI monitoring and improvement (OEE, yield, downtime, labor efficiency, waste)
- Champion a culture of safety, accountability, and employee engagement across all departments
- Hire, train, and develop plant leadership and hourly teams, ensuring alignment with company values and performance expectations
- Implement Lean, Six Sigma, or TPM methodologies to improve throughput and reduce cost per unit
- Collaborate cross-functionally with QA, R&D, Supply Chain, and Corporate Leadership to ensure alignment on product development, launches, and compliance
- Manage plant budgets, capital investment projects, and long-term resource planning
- Regularly report on performance metrics, staffing, and compliance to executive leadership
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or Business (Master’s preferred)
- 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in food manufacturing, including 5+ years in ice cream or frozen dessert operations
- Demonstrated success managing plant P&L, delivering operational KPIs, and leading cross-functional teams in a regulated environment
Skills & Knowledge
- Deep technical understanding of ice cream manufacturing processes, including mix formulation, pasteurization, freezing, inclusion handling, and packaging
- Expert knowledge of food safety systems and regulatory compliance requirements
- Strong leadership and team development skills with a track record of building high-performance cultures
- Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles
- Experience with ERP and MES systems; data-driven decision-making skills
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Preferred Certifications
- HACCP Certified
- SQF Practitioner or PCQI
- Six Sigma or Lean Certification
- OSHA Safety Certification
Working Conditions
- Based on-site at a high-volume manufacturing facility with exposure to cold temperatures, noise, and food processing equipment
- Must be available for on-call support and occasional weekend/night shift coverage based on operational needs
Why Join Us?
- Lead operations at a modern, innovation-driven ice cream facility
- Be a key driver of growth, quality, and sustainability in a fast-paced consumer goods company
- Competitive compensation package including base salary, performance bonuses, and full benefits
- Opportunities for executive-level growth and strategic leadership in a growing business