Initiating a search for a VICE PRESIDENT OF MANUFACTURING for a mid-sized ($100MM+), highly successful, growth oriented (organic/new products), privately-held, national, multi-site manufacturer headquartered in the Upper Central Midwest that offers a unique and highly thought of/recognized team-oriented and entrepreneurial culture/work environment.  Our client is seeking a dynamic, servant-oriented and career/growth-oriented leader to lead/manage/optimize all aspects of their FOOD manufacturing operation.  As a key member of their senior leadership team, you will drive operational excellence, ensure the highest standards of quality, and help shape the future growth of this company.  This is a rare opportunity to lead a dynamic team (250+ ftes), optimize production processes, and make a significant impact in the fast-paced food manufacturing industry.

 

• Lead Operational Excellence: Oversee daily operations across both plants, ensuring the production of premium-quality products that meet the highest industry standards.
• Develop & Implement Strategy: Work with executive leadership to craft and execute operational strategies that drive growth, profitability, and continuous improvement in their manufacturing processes.
• Optimize Production: Streamline production workflows, introduce best practices, and identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance productivity.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure the highest standards of quality control and food safety practices are implemented, meeting both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations
• Financial Oversight: Manage the P&L for both plants, working to achieve financial goals, control costs, and maximize profitability without sacrificing product quality.
• Team Leadership & Development: Build and lead a high-performing operations team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.  Mentor plant managers and production supervisors to achieve peak performance.
• Safety & Compliance: Ensure all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations, maintaining a safe, clean, and compliant workplace for all employees.

• Experience: 7+ years of experience in operations leadership within the food manufacturing or production industry, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to manage, motivate, and lead teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, with a strong focus on developing talent and building high-performing teams.
• Operational Expertise: Deep knowledge of manufacturing operations, continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.), and best practices for scaling production.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical skills and a solutions-oriented mindset to identify and address operational challenges.
• Financial Acumen: Experience driving cost-efficiency and improving profitability while maintaining product quality.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence, collaborate, and report effectively across all levels of the organization. 
• Education: A degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, PMP) are a plus.

 

Salary $200K - $260K, attractive/real bonus potential, attractive benefit package and culture/work environment.