We are looking to add an experienced Vice President of Manufacturing to join our Traditions Meal Solutions team in Pearl, MS. This senior leader will oversee production, warehousing, quality assurance, sanitation, and engineering — ensuring the facility operates at peak performance while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, employee safety, and efficiency.
The role carries full accountability for plant financial performance, operational excellence, and delivery of high-quality food products that meet customer needs. This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the most critical food manufacturing facilities in Central Mississippi — shaping the future of safe, high-quality food production while driving innovation and efficiency in a confidential, high-impact leadership role.
Responsibilities:
- Lead all manufacturing operations to ensure food is produced safely, efficiently, and in compliance with USDA, FDA, HARPC, and FSMA requirements.
- Build and sustain a safety-first culture for both employees and products.
- Manage the facility’s P&L, driving productivity, cost optimization, and profitability.
- Oversee equipment utilization, asset care, and continuous improvement initiatives through Lean practices.
- Ensure all products meet customer specifications and are delivered on time with uncompromising quality.
- Develop and mentor plant leadership teams, fostering employee engagement and professional growth.
- Collaborate with corporate stakeholders to align facility operations with company strategy.
- Drive innovation in processes, systems, and technology to strengthen food manufacturing performance.
Minimum Requirements:
- Proven manufacturing executive with expertise in food production, safety, and large-scale operations.
- Strong communicator with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.
- Hands-on, strategic leader with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
- A track record of driving operational excellence and delivering results in food manufacturing.
Must-Haves:
- Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Supply Chain, Food Science, or Manufacturing (preferred).
- 10+ years of senior leadership experience in food manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of USDA and FDA regulations.
- Experience with P&L ownership, supply chain, purchasing, and logistics.
- Expertise in Lean Manufacturing practices.
- Strong computer literacy and interpersonal leadership skills.
Our Benefits:
- Medical (FT Employees)
- Dental
- Vision
- Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
- Discount Program
- Commuter Benefits (Parking and Transit)
- EAP
- 401k
- Sick Time
- Holiday Pay (9 paid holidays)
- Tuition Reimbursement (FT Employees)
- Paid Time Off
Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.