Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- In-depth expertise in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) manufacturing, with a strong understanding of process optimization, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
- Proven track record of 5+ years in senior management roles overseeing technical services, such as plant maintenance, automation, and utility operations.
- Minimum 8+ years of hands-on experience in plant manufacturing and maintenance management, demonstrating a strong understanding of operational challenges and solutions.
- Proficiency in MRP and ERP systems for manufacturing environments, focusing on data-driven decision-making and process improvement.
- Strong foundation in PLCs and logic controls, particularly in high-speed operating equipment, and the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues.
- Demonstrated analytical skills with a history of identifying root causes and implementing effective, data-driven solutions to improve operational efficiency and quality.
- Expertise in Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous process improvement and waste reduction.
Summary:
The Director will oversee maintenance, utilities, and inventory management to enhance manufacturing performance, reduce downtime, and maximize plant efficiency. As a proven leader in technical services, this individual will ensure adherence to stringent food safety and product quality standards while driving operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership: Lead and manage the technical services team, including direct and indirect reports, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
- Project Management: Oversee capital project engineering, from design through execution, ensuring timely and successful completion in collaboration with external vendors.
- Financial Management: Develop and manage annual and long-term capital budgets, ensuring alignment with business goals and optimizing resource allocation.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams including R&D, Quality, Engineering, Procurement, and Product Supply to drive key performance initiatives and ensure seamless operations.
- Operational Excellence: Ensure manufacturing processes deliver high-quality products efficiently and on schedule while minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
- Safety and Compliance: Foster a safe working environment and ensure full compliance with all relevant regulations, including food safety, environmental, and occupational health and safety standards.
- Continuous Improvement: Implement Lean Manufacturing principles within the technical services function to drive continuous improvement, reduce waste, and optimize processes.
- Organizational Development: Structure the organization effectively to meet operational objectives and ensure optimal resource utilization, promoting efficiency and accountability.
- Quality Assurance: Establish and maintain robust quality control measures, preventive maintenance schedules, and performance benchmarks to ensure product quality and consistency.
- Regulatory Compliance: Lead efforts in employee safety, environmental compliance, and product quality while adhering to schedule and budget commitments.
- External Relations: Serve as the plant's representative in interactions with state and local regulatory officials and community leaders, building strong relationships and ensuring compliance with local regulations.