The Manager, Operations & Cheese Production serves as the direct supervisor of the production team and related equipment & assets, including both Cheese Production and Cutting & Wrapping areas. This role is accountable for safe production in accordance with GMP policies and plant SOPs. Additionally, they are responsible for the leadership, training, and development, scheduling, inventory management, and equipment reliability within production areas.
Operate safely and appropriately in all AgCertain situations and environments
Demonstrate an advanced and continuously increasing understanding of associated systems within pre-production, cheesemaking, and post-production
Display a dedication to lead, participate, and support ongoing safety efforts
Develop training programs and be a qualified trainer of employees on how to perform all production process procedures
Monitor production metrics and quality parameters, intervening as necessary to maintain high standards
Have a thorough understanding of and be able to apply Occupational Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices to procedures within the plant/understand how they affect the production process
Display advanced working knowledge of the cheese process and related chemistry
Work alongside the manufacturing operations team to learn, understand, and participate in production
Follow all written procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
Manage and coordinate Management of Change projects for both areas of production, including completion and delegation of process information updates, SOP creation or updates, employee training, process control updates, and equipment design updates
Be able to troubleshoot deficiencies, reduce waste, improve production efficiency, and improve product quality
Be an active member of the Crisis Management Team, Recall Team, and Food Safety Team with a working understanding of the food safety and quality systems (HAACP, GMP, and SQF) to ensure product quality
Operate all equipment with a heightened focus on precision and adherence to formulations
Complete all necessary paperwork and recordkeeping as required by Quality Assurance to maintain traceability accurately and in a timely manner
Coordinate and assist with maintenance efforts within the facility
Schedule to ensure production and performance of all kinds meet the requirements of the Company
Coordinate with and follow guidance from sales, procurement, logistics and other departments of the Company
Manage inventories of all materials, parts, products, raw materials, etc. including replacement activity
Undergo Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) training and comply with Occupational Safety policies and GMPs in the production process; perform sanitation duties in accordance with SOPs, Food Safety and GMP compliance
Participate in all company trainings
Perform additional duties as assigned
A Bachelor’s degree in a Dairy Science or related field; A degree in Business or advanced training preferred
Minimum five (5) years industry experience with a management role
Prior experience in a food processing plant, manufacturing facility, or food service industry preferred
Blue Cheese and/or cheesemaking knowledge preferred
Willingness to learn and understand AgCertain
Physical abilities to include the ability to lift 75 lbs (34 Kg), ability to spend 8+ hours on feet and/or standing in place
Proven leadership skills and experience managing a team
Excellent communication, organizational, management, and computer skills
Advanced skill in Excel and other Microsoft programs
Possess a mechanical aptitude for operations and maintenance; troubleshoot production systems
Have a working understanding of cold chain logistics
Familiarity with ERP systems
Ability to interact professionally and effectively with internal and external customers
Act with humility, candor, honesty, integrity, and a commitment to safety
Abide by Good Manufacturing Practices in all areas of the facility
