Vice President of Manufacturing

About the Role

A well-established food processing manufacturer with over 56 years of history is seeking a seasoned Vice President of Operations to oversee daily operations at its Georgia headquarters. This leadership position entails full ownership of the facility's profit and loss, managing quality, safety, supply chain, distribution, and manufacturing functions, with direct supervision of 15 managers and 300 staff members. Reporting directly to the President, the role suits a financially savvy leader capable of growing the team and driving performance across all operational facets.

About the Company

The organization operates multiple sites and is poised for expansion. It invests significantly in its workforce, operational capabilities, and infrastructure, nurturing a culture centered on performance, teamwork, food safety, and operational excellence. The company is dynamic and values leaders who can significantly influence its trajectory.

Responsibilities

• Manage all daily operations at the Georgia facility, including manufacturing, quality assurance, food safety, supply chain, logistics, and collaboration with HR.
• Oversee financial performance at the site, focusing on gross margin, EBITDA, and working capital.
• Develop and implement annual operating plans, capital expenditure budgets, and strategic long-term initiatives.
• Lead and mentor the senior leadership team encompassing operations, quality, safety, and supply chain functions.
• Drive manufacturing excellence through the application of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement techniques, TPM, and OEE programs using tools like Redzone.
• Enhance efficiency in purchasing, production planning, logistics, freight, labor allocation, and overall plant productivity.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety standards and certifications, including SQF, HACCP, USDA, FDA, and customer quality requirements.
• Collaborate with R&D leadership to facilitate new product creation, commercialization, and ongoing product enhancements.
• Strengthen organizational capabilities via coaching, succession planning, and leadership development initiatives.
• Report financial and operational results regularly to the President and company ownership.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a closely related discipline is mandatory.
• Advanced qualifications such as an MBA, Master’s degree, PMP certification, or similar credentials are advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 to 15 years of escalating leadership experience within food manufacturing, especially in baking, meat processing, desserts, or specialized food processing sectors.
• Proven track record of managing a manufacturing plant or business unit with comprehensive P&L responsibility.
• Expertise in managing diverse functions including manufacturing, supply chain, quality control, logistics, and staff development.
• Familiarity with food safety systems such as SQF, HACCP, USDA, FDA, GFSI, or BRC is preferred.
• Strong financial acumen with an ability to interpret P&L reports and make sound operational and strategic decisions.
• Experience collaborating with company ownership and executive-level leadership.
• Data-oriented and analytical mindset with proficiency in ERP systems, Microsoft Office, and related platforms; familiarity with Redzone software is beneficial.
• Commanding executive presence capable of leading through influence, accountability, and fostering collaboration.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary ranges from $250,000 to $300,000 annually, depending on education and experience.
• Opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Relocation assistance is available on a case-by-case basis for suitable candidates.
• Travel requirements up to 25% as business demands.

Additional Information

This position is designed for a professional ready to take full accountability for business operations rather than a limited departmental management role. The company values proactive leadership committed to steering a thriving food processing facility toward continued growth and innovation.