Director of Manufacturing, Pellets

About Traeger, Inc.

Traeger, Inc., headquartered in Salt Lake City, UT, is the pioneer of the wood pellet grill, dedicated to delivering mouthwatering BBQ experiences for over 30 years. The company fosters a passionate culture aimed at building connections through flavorful food, striving for excellence in service to customers, retailers, and employees.

Role Overview

The Director of Manufacturing for Pellets is charged with leading operational excellence across Traeger's pellet production, encompassing both company-owned plants and contract manufacturers domestically and internationally. This position acts as the lead for Pellet Business Operations at headquarters, with full accountability for production, quality, cost control, safety, sourcing, compliance, new product introductions, and capital planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and supervise a robust manufacturing network including owned and contract facilities across multiple geographies.
• Establish, monitor, and enhance key performance indicators related to safety, quality, delivery, and cost, ensuring sites meet world-class standards.
• Ensure on-time, complete, and quality fulfillment is maintained without compromise.
• Manage programs that improve equipment reliability and maintenance to uphold production demands.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement through LEAN principles and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), building scalable systems across all sites.
• Transform operational data into strategic insights that pinpoint waste and trigger cost and efficiency improvements.
• Deliver manufacturing performance reporting and uphold executive accountability for operational health across the network.
• Define and implement a long-term strategic plan for pellet operations, including growth trajectories, capacity forecasting, and business continuity strategies.
• Lead capacity planning and capital expenditure strategy, coordinating with finance for budget and prioritization.
• Conduct scenario analysis related to customer expansion, network growth, and sourcing decisions.
• Manage supplier relationships by leading sourcing strategies, contract negotiations, supplier onboarding, cost control, quality assurance, and lead time management.
• Hold P&L responsibility for pellet manufacturing, driving cost discipline and operational efficiency to enhance unit economics.
• Serve as the compliance authority for pellet operations, overseeing environmental regulations (e.g., air quality permitting), FSC/EUDR compliance, and maintaining GMP audit readiness.
• Guide new product development from concept phase to launch, aligning cross-functional teams on feasibility, timelines, and distribution.
• Act as a strategic partner across functions such as Category Management, Finance, Sales, and Operations, resolving cross-departmental challenges and ensuring aligned priorities.
• Build and develop a high-performing team, fostering clear roles, career progression, and accountability.
• Maintain transparent communication with site leaders, partners, and senior stakeholders to manage risk and expedite decision-making.
• Contribute to strategic company-wide initiatives that promote Traeger's operational and business objectives.

Candidate Profile

• More than 10 years’ experience in manufacturing operations with at least 5 years in senior leadership managing multi-site or networked production.
• Proven leadership in building effective teams and influencing within matrix organizations.
• Strong financial literacy with experience managing budgets, cost control, and reporting to executive leaders.
• Ability to navigate complex operational environments, make well-informed decisions in ambiguous situations, and manage pressure.
• Highly self-motivated with executive presence and awareness to interact effectively at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency using ERP platforms, data analysis software, Microsoft 365, and familiarity with AI tools to support decision-making.
• Experience in the wood pellet industry is advantageous.
• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, or related discipline required.

Why Join Traeger?

• Be part of a pioneering company disrupting outdoor cooking.
• Work in a collaborative environment unified by shared goals.
• Embrace a culture that encourages innovation, risk-taking, and quality.
• Enjoy abundant food perks.
• Relish an outdoor lifestyle in your backyard.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance tailored to your needs.
• 401(k) plan to support your financial future.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Personalized professional development and growth initiatives.
• Attractive discounts on Traeger products.
• And yes, plenty of food!