Wildflower Recruitment Consulting
Key operational leader responsible for managing all aspects of the Operations and CI departments in a high-volume food manufacturing facility. This role ensures that safety, quality, efficiency, and cost targets are met while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. The position is designed as a developmental role for future promotion to Plant Director.
Key Responsibilities Lead daily production operations across multiple lines to meet output, quality, and safety goals. Supervise and develop production supervisors and frontline teams. Larger or more complex plants will also include Operations Shift Managers that report into. Lead continuous improvement activities for the site, including direct supervision of the CI Manager. Monitor and improve KPIs including throughput, yield, labor efficiency, and downtime. Ensure compliance with food safety standards (e.g., SQF, HACCP, GMP) and regulatory requirements. Partner with Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve issues and optimize performance. The Assistant Plant Director will be a leader amongst peers on the Plant Leadership Team. Drive continuous improvement initiatives using TPM or other methodologies. Support, and lead, capital projects and equipment upgrades within the production and warehouse areas. Serve as acting Plant Director when needed and participate in strategic planning. This includes, but is not limited to, OPC (cost) planning, VCP initiatives, 9-box calibration, succession planning and annual capital planning Lead process to create Site Masterplan, lead GAP closure updates, and ensure the site is embracing and owning the SHOP principles.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred). 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a production leadership role. Strong understanding of food safety, manufacturing processes, and labor management. Proven ability to lead teams, manage change, and deliver results. Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Experience with ERP systems and production planning tools.
Career Path This role is intended for high-potential candidates preparing for promotion to
Plant Director . The successful candidate will receive mentorship, strategic exposure, and leadership development opportunities.
Key Responsibilities Lead daily production operations across multiple lines to meet output, quality, and safety goals. Supervise and develop production supervisors and frontline teams. Larger or more complex plants will also include Operations Shift Managers that report into. Lead continuous improvement activities for the site, including direct supervision of the CI Manager. Monitor and improve KPIs including throughput, yield, labor efficiency, and downtime. Ensure compliance with food safety standards (e.g., SQF, HACCP, GMP) and regulatory requirements. Partner with Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve issues and optimize performance. The Assistant Plant Director will be a leader amongst peers on the Plant Leadership Team. Drive continuous improvement initiatives using TPM or other methodologies. Support, and lead, capital projects and equipment upgrades within the production and warehouse areas. Serve as acting Plant Director when needed and participate in strategic planning. This includes, but is not limited to, OPC (cost) planning, VCP initiatives, 9-box calibration, succession planning and annual capital planning Lead process to create Site Masterplan, lead GAP closure updates, and ensure the site is embracing and owning the SHOP principles.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred). 5+ years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a production leadership role. Strong understanding of food safety, manufacturing processes, and labor management. Proven ability to lead teams, manage change, and deliver results. Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Experience with ERP systems and production planning tools.
Career Path This role is intended for high-potential candidates preparing for promotion to
Plant Director . The successful candidate will receive mentorship, strategic exposure, and leadership development opportunities.