Director of Operations-Lenexa, KS

Fresh and Ready Food Group is seeking an Operations Director to serve as the Site Leader for the Lenexa, KS food manufacturing facility. The Operations Director will build operational talent, address key performance challenges, and implement sustainable practices around lean manufacturing.

Expected results include sustainable improvements in safety, productivity, quality, on-time deliveries, and inventory turns. This operational leadership role reports to the SVP of Operations. Interested candidates who meet the requirements below are encouraged to apply today!

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop the team to maintain and enhance a competitive edge and service to the customer.
• Lead safety awareness and implement innovative techniques to ensure a safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and company-defined food safety and sanitation standards, systems, procedures, and practices.
• Oversee management of critical food safety programs such as SQF, sanitation, chemical control, and maintenance programs.
• Maintain high visibility to employees and create a safe environment for participation. Promote hands-on, high-involvement approaches to problem-solving.
• Drive a continuous improvement philosophy utilizing the Toyota Production Systems Lean Manufacturing (TPS).
• Foster collaboration across the enterprise and assist in lean application.
• Meet and exceed year-over-year financial targets through continuous improvement projects and cost reduction.
• Manage material replenishment methods, quality standards, and performance metrics in support of organizational goals.
• Lead and mentor managers and supervisors in developing a Winning Culture. Improve the skills, knowledge, and abilities of managers and supervisors to ensure strong succession planning.
• Support the development of products that will increase market share or expand market potential.
• Exhibit excellent organization, analytical, communication, and presentation skills.

Skills and Experience:

• BA or BS in Operations Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5-10 years in a Food Manufacturing Leadership Role or equivalent.
• Demonstrated understanding of Lean Manufacturing concepts.
• Proven history of increased responsibility and knowledge.

Desirable Characteristics:

• Must be able to thrive in a team environment and quickly build rapport
• Exhibit positive energy and contribute as a change agent to the organization
• Comfortable working in an ambiguous environment, taking initiative and being accountable for their site
• Food manufacturing experience is highly preferred

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to a cold environment, moving mechanical parts on the factory floor, and may need to work in an environment where the noise level could be moderate to very loud.