Our client is one of America’s premier agribusiness and food companies, and is a member-owned cooperative with industry-leading operations that span the spectrum from agricultural production to consumer foods. With 2022 annual sales of $19B, the are one of the nation’s largest cooperatives, ranking 232 on the Fortune 500. Building on a legacy of more than 100 years of operation, they today operates some of the most respected brands in agribusiness and food production including Dairy Foods, Animal Nutrition, others. The company does business in all 50 states and more than 60 countries.
This role is an onsite opportunity with relocation assistance available for a prestigious dairy manufacturing plant in the wonderful community of Melrose, Minnesota.
As they continue growing, they are looking for a Senior Operations Manager. This role is responsible for leading a production team comprised of seven salaried reports and over 140 hourly associates with the goal of creating a strong safety culture, positive employee relations & engagement and consistency throughout each of the teams. This is a state of the art, award winning Cheese making plant that is undergoing a multi-year project to modernize the milk receiving building. Some of the upgrades include updating automated sanitation systems, adding three new bays and remodeling the current bays to achieve a total of six bays when complete. The six bays will be wider to reduce congestion and will create easier access for today’s larger-sized trucks.
What YOU get to DO at this growing company:
- Oversees the day-to-day operations of a 24x7 facility, ensuring seamless operations and addressing issues promptly.
- Mentor, coach, and train team members to foster effective teams and facilitate workforce agility. Communication within and across teams is ensured to foster collaboration.
- Collaborating with the Plant Steering Team, they develop and implement strategies, provide project leadership, and promote employee engagement.
- Quick decision-making, multitasking, attention to detail, and commitment to safety are key aspects of their role.
- Lead change initiatives, utilize Continuous Improvement methodologies, manage budgets, and may require occasional travel to support operational needs.
What you NEED to SUCCEED in this challenging role:
- Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, with at least 7 years of supervisory/management experience in food or dairy processing/manufacturing operations.
- Strong leadership skills, effective communication abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Quick decision-making, deadline management, and multitasking skills are essential, along with attention to detail and follow-through.
- Results-oriented mindset, foster a positive work environment, and prioritize safety.
- Experience with Continuous Improvement methodologies and ERP systems is desirable, and change management skills are crucial.
- Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree, dairy manufacturing experience, and proficiency in high-speed manufacturing.
- Demonstrated expertise in Continuous Improvement Processes and Lean Six Sigma certification is beneficial.
What's in it for YOU?
- Work with one of the most recognized brands in the dairy Food industry that offers advancement opportunities
- Attractive salary and wages, annual incentives, bonus plan and opportunities for recognition
- Financial well-being by offering Retirement Plans, Income protection, HSA and more
- Focus on Health and Wellness through a comprehensive Benefits package and counseling programs
- All benefits kick in on day 1!
