Operations Manager - Dairy Manufacturing Minnesota

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.