Processing Plant Manager
The Processing Plant Manager will lead the successful start-up and ongoing operation of the new Kendallville, Indiana egg-processing facility. During the pre-operational phase, the role serves as the on-site project leadcoordinating equipment installation, recruiting and training a high-performing team, implementing food-safety and quality systems, and ensuring the facility is ready to produce first-quality product on schedule and within budget. Once commercial production begins, the Plant Manager assumes full responsibility for day-to-day plant operations, driving safety, quality, service, and cost performance in alignment with company goals. Direct responsibility includes processing, sanitation, maintenance, and warehousing.
Responsibilities:
- Direct and manage plant operations for processing.
- Lead daily production meetings; coordinate activities across Production, Maintenance, Quality, Warehouse, and Scheduling.
- Coordinate plant activities through the planning and collaboration with departmental managers to ensure the plant's objectives are accomplished in a timely and cost-effective manner.
- Establish and monitor overall plant performance for production and quality standards.
- Maintain and continuously improve the Food Safety Management System; host and close out customer, regulatory and third-party audits.
- Control and minimize labor overtime.
- Manage plant budget, monitor KPIs, and implement corrective actions to meet financial commitments.
- Maintain existing plant facilities and equipment; adjust plant facilities when necessary.
- Provide leadership and training to accomplish the company goals and objectives.
- Incorporates shop floor organization and plant cleanliness among plant personnel.
- Provide direction, coaching, development and leadership to direct reports and the rest of the organization.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree preferred in Business Management, Food Science Operations Management and/or 5 8 years in a similar role.
- 810+ years of progressive leadership in food or beverage manufacturing, including at least one full facility start up or major line commissioning.
- Demonstrated success building high performing teams and implementing world class manufacturing systems (Lean, TPM, Six Sigma).
- Working knowledge of SQF/BRC, FDA Preventive Controls for Human Food, USDA shell egg/grading regulations, and refrigeration/ammonia systems.
- Proficiency with ERP/MES, CMMS, and Microsoft Office; strong analytical and data driven decision making skills.
- Does not own or maintain routine contact with swine, birds, cattle or other egg processing farms or facilities.
Competencies:
- Leadership & Talent Development. Collaborative and inspiring to others, resolves conflicts effectively and sets clear expectations. Leads by example, communicates, develops others, knows the business and embraces change.
- Project & Change Management (Greenfield/Brownfield start-up experience)
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Communication & Stakeholder Management
- Technical Aptitude (egg-processing equipment, refrigeration, automation)
- Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
- Financial & Business Acumen
Physical Demands:
- Ability to perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.
- Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
- Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
- Work in variable temperatures (3585?F), noise, and around moving mechanical parts.
- Extended hours and weekend work may be required during commissioning, shutdowns, or peak demand periods.