Manufacturing Operations Manager

A rapidly growing, nationally recognized food manufacturer is seeking an Operations Manager to work very closedly with the plant manager, and be a leader within a high-volume, multi-line production bakery. This role is designed as a succession and development position for a high-performing operations leader looking to step into broader site leadership.

This is a highly visible role with direct ownership of production performance, people leadership, and continuous improvement initiatives within a complex manufacturing environment.

• Clear and intentional succession pathway
• Opportunity to lead a large, high-volume, multi-line manufacturing operation
• Exposure to enterprise-level strategy while maintaining strong floor leadership
• Highly collaborative environment partnering with HR, Finance, Supply Chain, and R&D
• Strong investment in leadership development and operational excellence

• Lead and develop production supervisors and frontline leadership teams
• Drive daily execution across multiple production lines to achieve safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets
• Champion employee engagement, training, and leadership development initiatives
• Partner cross-functionally with Supply Chain, HR, Finance, and R&D to improve plant performance
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on yield, labor efficiency, and throughput
• Support capital planning, budgeting, and cost savings initiatives
• Maintain compliance with all food safety, regulatory, and quality standards
• Serve as acting Plant Manager during leadership absences and participate in succession planning

• 7+ years of food manufacturing experience, bakery manufacturing experience required
• Experience leading large hourly teams within high-volume, multi-line manufacturing
• Strong knowledge of FSMA, HACCP, and GFSI standards (SQF/BRC preferred)
• Proven ability to drive performance through people leadership and accountability
• Continuous improvement and root cause problem-solving experience