Himalayan Pet Supply is looking for an energetic, passionate individual to serve as its Director of Operations.    Starting with a creation by two brothers in 2003, Himalayan created a new category in the pet industry, thus changing the dog chew class significantly. By 2016, we became a leader in the industry as we expanded into other pet categories, transforming our company from a single product-oriented business to a pet supply company. The Director of Operations is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the daily operations of pet food production, specifically focusing on extrusion and packaging processes. This role will ensure that manufacturing operations are efficient, compliant with safety and quality standards, and aligned with organizational goals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in food manufacturing, operational leadership, and continuous improvement practices. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE Operations Leadership + Oversee day-to-day manufacturing operations for the Extrusion and Packaging production teams to ensure efficient workflows and achievement of production targets. + Develop and implement operational strategies to meet short- and long-term production goals. + Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and environmental standards (e.g., FSMA, HACCP, SQF). + Responsible for creation and review of all Production Orders in Business Central ERP software, BOM creation and updates, and Inventory adjustments + Measure, update, and present Operational KPIs in various review platforms such as daily Scrum, shift scorecard boards, weekly & monthly financial reviews, etc. Team Management + Lead, mentor, and develop production manager, supervisors & assistant supervisors, and team members to enhance team performance and engagement. + Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. + Conduct regular performance evaluations and set clear expectations for all team members. Process Optimization + Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as yield, throughput, waste, and downtime to identify improvement opportunities. + Measures team performance and drives action planning through visual performance management scorecards. + Drive lean manufacturing initiatives, implement Six Sigma methodologies, and standardize processes across operations. + Partner with maintenance teams to ensure proper care and reliability of equipment used in extrusion and packaging. + Analyze material variances and implement cost-saving measures where feasible while meeting production goals. Collaboration and Communication + Partner with R&D, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and Sales teams to support product launches and ensure alignment across departments. + Communicate production plans and inventory availability/allocation with department heads and key stakeholders such as Sales. + Responsible for managing the escalation process of downtime events related to staffing or equipment & process failures, delays in production areas, non-conformities related to quality, and safety incidents. + Approver of all Downtime Requests to schedule trials, experiments, maintenance repair work, or other events as necessary; owner of the Downtime Request process + Act as a liaison between Sales, Finance, Maintenance, Logistics and the Operations teams to align strategy with execution. Compliance and Safety + Ensure the production floor meets all regulatory and industry standards, including FDA, USDA, and GMP requirements. + Promote a safety-first culture by enforcing proper procedures and training programs to prevent injuries and maintain a safe work environment. + Member of the Food Safety Team, Safety Committee, Innovation Team, and Customer Service Review EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE + Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field + 7-10+ years of experience in operations leadership within the food manufacturing industry, with a focus on extrusion and/or packaging processes. + Strong knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance (e.g., HACCP, FSMA, SQF). + Proven experience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies. + Excellent leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams. + Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities. + Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and production planning software. KEY COMPETENCIES + Strategic thinking and operational execution. + Exceptional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills + Strong focus on quality, safety, and efficiency. + Data-driven approach to decision-making and performance improvement. + Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.  + Process focused on building standards and procedures. HIMALAYAN OFFERS GREAT BENEFITS AND PERKS SUCH AS: + 401k with Company match up to 4% + Paid vacation and sick hours. + Paid company holidays, 9 per year. + Low-cost medical insurance + Competitive dental, vision, and supplemental insurance. Plus, discounted pet insurance! + Internal Career opportunities, training, and much more! LOCATION Arlington, Washington (This is NOT a remote position) COMPENSATION $110,000-$130,000 EEO Statement Himalayan Dog Chew, LLC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that appreciates and leverages the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, ethnicity, gender, age, national origin, religion, marital status, veteran status, physical or other disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.   Powered by JazzHR