Job description

About the Role

Judge Direct Placement seeks an accomplished Director of Operations to manage and enhance plant operations at a food manufacturing facility. Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, this leader will oversee production, enforce quality and safety standards, and champion continuous process improvements to support strategic company growth.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all production operations across multiple shifts, ensuring smooth execution.
Guide and assist Production Managers to meet operational, quality, safety, and efficiency objectives.
Coordinate daily production schedules to fulfill customer demands and meet targets.
Monitor and optimize labor use and production expenses to enhance profitability.
Organize staffing plans, including schedules and vacation coverage, for production leadership.
Evaluate managerial performance and oversee operational effectiveness.
Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality Assurance, and R&D teams for integrated production processes.
Lead initiatives focused on plant cleanliness, food safety, workplace safety, and regulatory compliance.
Drive continuous improvement projects aimed at boosting productivity, quality, and waste reduction.
Engage in management reviews, operational assessments, and strategic planning activities.
Serve as a secondary contact point for facility security issues.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, or related fields.
At least 5 to 10 years of increasing leadership roles in manufacturing at director or senior operations level.
Proven success leading operations in large-scale manufacturing environments.
Experience managing production teams, implementing operational enhancements, and meeting performance benchmarks.
Familiarity with designing operational procedures, production controls, and workforce management approaches.
Master's degree preferred.
Background in food manufacturing is advantageous.
Experience working for food manufacturers with revenues above $100 million is a plus.
Knowledge of hot-fill manufacturing technology is beneficial.
Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certifications and experience are desirable.
Exposure to internal and competitive benchmarking practices is favorable.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout manufacturing areas regularly.
Capacity to lift up to 25 pounds when required.
Comfort working on the production floor amid seasonal temperature variations.
Work environment includes exposure to nuts, fruits, and other allergens common in food production.
Strong visual, communication, and interpersonal capabilities are essential.

Work Schedule and Additional Information

Full-time exempt leadership role primarily on the first shift.
Willingness to work additional hours, evenings, or weekends as business needs dictate.

Why Join?

Be part of a stable and expanding manufacturer.
Lead impactful operational projects that shape plant success.
Contribute to continuous improvement and performance enhancement initiatives.
Collaborate with seasoned executive leaders.
Competitive salary and benefits package provided.

Director of Operations