Director Of Production Operations

Gelati Celesti is seeking a Director of Production Operations to join our growing team working in a family-centric, entrepreneurial and dynamic environment. This position is responsible for managing all aspects of the operation and production of ice cream in a safe and efficient manner.
The Director of Production Operations will focus on bringing "joy" to customers by manufacturing the best ice cream in the world.
Core Functions

• Ensure the plant meets established safety, quality, and production goals in compliance with all applicable legal and food safety requirements, including, but not limited to: OSHA, VDACS, FSMA, GFSI, internal SSOP's, and the HACCP plan.
• Hire, train, coach and review performance of team members. Partner with Human Resources for recruitment, corrective actions, and terminations.
• Analyze and submit reports for production numbers, downtime, attendance, overtime and quality checks.
• Champion a world-class safety culture.
• Maintain applicable plant certifications.
• Develop, maintain and manage an effective ice cream distribution process to ensure timely deliveries of product to retail stores.
• Manage the Production Department's Compliance Manager as well as all staff members producing ice cream.
• Develop the Production Department budget and forecast including developing a capital improvement section justifying production upgrades and process technology to improve quality, cost, and cycle times.
• Conduct R&D and monitor flavor trends to maintain a competitive edge; develop new flavors regularly.
• Interface with multiple departments within the organization.
• Develop, recommend, and implement measures to improve production methods, equipment performance, and quality of product.
• Plan and execute preventative maintenance on the production equipment.
• Maintain effective working relationships with team members through open communication, visibility, and involvement to promote a positive working environment that maximizes safety, employee engagement, productivity, and throughput.
• Create production schedules that meet both internal and external needs. Establish and adjust work procedures and schedules to meet said plan.
• Manage daily operations of the Production Department.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and project/ensure correct inventories based on production schedules. Navigate supplier quality issues to prevent customer shortages.
• Review and modify annually (or as needed) the comprehensive Food Safety Plan.

Skills, Experience, And Minimum Qualifications

• With experience
• 4 Years - Experience managing people and projects
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook
• To problem solve and collaborate across multiple departments.
• Experience with negotiating supplier contracts and navigating supply chain issues.
• 5 Years - Experience in food industry or similar manufacturing environment
• Excellent communication (verbal & written) and leadership skills. Strong ability and willingness
• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Food Science, Business Administration, or related vocational studies
• Strong operational & manufacturing leadership experience in the food manufacturing industry

*Experience may include a combination of work experience and education*
Lead Like An Owner

• Lead/facilitate discussions to get positive outcomes for the customer.
• Participate in and provide strategic input in weekly department head leadership meetings as well as input on the ten (10) year vision of the company.
• Reduce costs and manage timelines while prioritizing long run impact over short term wins.
• Create, monitor, and respond to departmental performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.
• Communicate a clear vision of a better Production Department
• Make data driven decisions and develop sustainable solutions in a proactive manner.
• Lead the production team consistent with company culture resulting in a highly trained team with a passion to make the world's best ice cream. Strike a balance between the craft of ice cream making and the need for an efficient operation.
• Embrace and encourage the company values: Treat Everyone Well, Good Vibrations, Be Real, Constant Improvement.