Operations manager - Food Manufacturing

Site Operations Manager

About the Role

We are hiring a Site Operations Manager to own day-to-day manufacturing performance at our facility. This role is responsible for turning a new processing site into a safe, efficient, and scalable operation capable of supporting rapid commercial growth.

You will lead the teams and systems that receive raw materials, process ingredients, and ship finished product while maintaining cold-chain integrity from dock to customer. In the first year, your priority will be establishing disciplined operating procedures that enable $10M+ in high-quality production, with processes designed to scale well beyond that. You'll also ensure the facility is prepared for long-term growth by building strong safety practices, reliable maintenance programs, and efficient sanitation and logistics workflows.

This role works closely with quality, finance, R&D, engineering, and leadership to embed traceability, efficiency, and compliance into daily operations.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Leadership & Safety

• Build and maintain a strong safety-first culture across the site.

• Lead and develop up to 20 direct and indirect reports across operations, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics.

• Ensure all facility activities comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations for human-grade food production.

Operational Excellence

• Manage daily production to meet demand while controlling costs and maintaining quality standards.

• Establish and improve manufacturing, sanitation, maintenance, receiving, shipping, and inventory processes.

• Identify and resolve issues related to equipment performance, processing, packaging, or workflow disruptions.

• Maintain cold-chain integrity and minimize time from receipt to processing.

Continuous Improvement & Systems

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reliability, and throughput.

• Ensure accurate inventory control and support product traceability through proper system use.

• Maintain operational data and collaborate on ERP-related process adherence.

People Development & Financial Stewardship

• Coach and develop team members through performance management, training, and compensation planning.

• Contribute to site budgeting and resource planning.

• Manage labor, equipment, and material resources within area of responsibility.

• Provide input into operational policies and procedures.

Additional Duties

• Support cross-functional initiatives and other responsibilities as needed to support site success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.

• At least 5 years of experience in food manufacturing, including people management responsibilities.

• Minimum of 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.

• Experience working in regulated food production environments.

• Proven ability to lead teams, manage priorities, and operate effectively in a fast-paced plant setting.