Director of Operations

Role overview

A fast-growing premium protein business has expanded dramatically over the last two years and is now looking for a Director of Operations to lead its Minnesota facility. This role is central to strengthening the systems, processes, and operational discipline needed as the company scales further.

Reporting to the CEO, you will oversee production, food safety, quality, maintenance, warehousing, and distribution. The site focuses on meat processing, portioning, packaging, and fulfillment.

Key responsibilities

• Direct all daily plant activities and keep operations running smoothly.
• Raise performance across efficiency, yield, labor usage, and throughput.
• Champion Lean, Six Sigma, and broader continuous improvement efforts.
• Create meaningful KPIs and ensure strong accountability across the operation.
• Work closely with Quality and Food Safety teams to stay compliant with regulations.
• Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing operations organization.

Why this role is compelling

• Play a highly visible part in the growth of a rapidly expanding company.
• Work directly with executive leadership and the ownership team.
• Help shape strategy while driving real operational change.
• Enjoy an entrepreneurial setting with limited bureaucracy.
• Be part of a mission-led culture centered on premium animal protein and sustainable practices.
• Lay the operational groundwork for the company’s next phase of growth.

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant brings deep plant leadership experience in meat, poultry, or protein processing and is comfortable balancing big-picture strategy with hands-on execution. This is a strong fit for someone who wants more influence, autonomy, and visibility than is typically available in larger corporate environments.

If you are motivated by building teams, improving processes, adding structure, and helping steer a growing organization through its next stage, this opportunity may be a strong match.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of leadership experience in meat, poultry, or protein processing.
• A track record of improving plant performance and operational metrics.
• Solid working knowledge of USDA, FSIS, HACCP, and food safety standards.
• Experience leading change and putting continuous improvement programs into practice.
• A practical, hands-on leadership style with the ability to balance planning and execution.
• Comfort working in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.

Additional information

The role is based in Minnesota, United States, and is a full-time onsite position.