Our Fortune 200 dairy client is seeking an Operation Manager for a central Minnesota manufacturing facility near St. Cloud. This important position will report to the Plant Manager and manage a 24x7 operation mentoring, coaching and training team members to develop effective and efficient teams. Collaborates with Plant Steering Team to develop and implement short and long-term strategies, including project leadership, staffing and employee engagement.

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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

•       Develops and directs programs to ensure the efficient and cost-effective operation and utilization of facility assets.

•       Manages safety, quality, service, and cost performance within assigned area.

•       Makes recommendations to senior management on long range labor strategies and capital equipment needs.

•       Develops and implements recommendations to change systems, policies, and procedures; ensures timely and accurate implementation.

•       Collaborates with Human Resources in employee relations matters and ensures consistent application of policy expectations.

•       Implements strategies and tactics that align with department and company vision and goals.

•       Develops and maintains operating budget and capital spending plans for assigned area of responsibility.

•       Identifies, obtains, and develops staff capabilities needed to consistently meet departmental objectives.

•       Ensures industry best practices are applied and employees are trained accordingly.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

•       High school diploma/GED plus 7 plus years of supervisory/management experience in food processing/manufacturing operations with solid progressive leadership experience.

•       Strong presentation, communication, training, and interpersonal skills.

•       Proven track record of understanding the drivers of product and labor cost variances. 

•       High speed food manufacturing.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

•       Ten years of supervisory/management experience in cheese or food manufacturing operations with solid progressive leadership experience.

•       MBA or master’s degree in engineering, preferred.

•       Proven ability to work with all levels and functions within the company.

•       Skilled in project management.

•       Experience leveraging skills and abilities of front-line employees.

•       Knowledge and exposure to TPM, Six Sigma, and various problem-solving methodologies.