Manager, Milk Operations and Farm Relationships

Overview

Manager of Milk Operations and Farm Relationships based in Nampa,  hybrid role requires regular interaction with dairy producers, haulers, suppliers, and internal teams, with occasional travel to plants and farms. The Dairy Operations & Farm Relationship Manager will oversee Lactalis USA’s direct milk supply chain, balancing strategic farm relationships with day-to-day operational execution. This role manages the flow of raw milk, cream, skim, and other fluid milk into plants, while fostering strong relationships with dairy producers to ensure sustainable, high-quality, and cost-effective supply.

The position plays a key role in implementing sourcing strategies, supporting sustainability initiatives, coordinating with internal supply chain functions, and driving adoption of digital tools such as Ever.ag Milk+.

From your experience to ours, we welcome your passion, story, and expertise to help shape the future of dairy at Lactalis.

• Contribute to the delivery of Lactalis USA’s milk sourcing strategy, ensuring alignment with milk quality, sustainability, cost, and service goals.
• Lead recruitment and onboarding of new direct milk producers across Organic, Conventional, and NGMO, aligning with sourcing priorities.
• Act as a liaison with producers on topics including animal welfare, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with prospective farmers; support transitions from conventional to organic systems.
• Coordinate farm-level programs that enhance profitability, sustainability, and milk quality, including technical assistance and third-party services.
• Support PR, Marketing, and Communications in promoting direct farm supply programs, including farm tours and virtual events.
• Obtain and maintain certifications as a F.A.R.M. evaluator (Animal Welfare, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development) and Cow Signals training.
• Ensure on-farm compliance with federal PMO requirements and plant quality protocols.

• Manage the daily flow of raw milk, cream, skim, and other dairy inputs from suppliers to plants.
• Partner with S&OP and plant scheduling to align supply with operational needs.
• Execute milk and cream buying/selling transactions to optimize supply balance and returns.
• Coordinate with haulers, suppliers, and plant teams to troubleshoot delivery, quality, or capacity issues.
• Drive adoption and utilization of Ever.ag Milk+ scheduling platform across procurement and operations.
• Maintain accurate records of loads, transactions, and variances; generate daily/weekly reports and market monitoring updates.
• Validate invoices, settlements, and volume reconciliations in coordination with Finance and Procurement.
• Support continuity of supply during demand peaks, holidays, and plant maintenance shutdowns.
• Ensure compliance with USDA, FMMO, and Lactalis internal quality standards.

• Actively participate in S&OP, supply chain, and procurement meetings to align on daily and long-term plans.
• Provide leadership with regular updates on farm recruitment, program progress, and operational risks.
• Lead or support initiatives to reduce carbon footprint, improve feed efficiency, and enhance overall farm and supply chain sustainability.
• Implement digital tools and new reporting templates to enhance visibility and efficiency across procurement and operations.

• Travel is required occasionally. Mostly local travel to farms with some required travel to California and other areas.
• Extended hours may be necessary depending on the project needs.
• Tools such as a computer and phone may be provided; cell phone is required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential duties.
• This position requires physical presence in the office, in accordance with the Hybrid Work Policy.
• Commitment to a safe working environment that promotes health and well-being of all employees and contributes to the Company’s performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Agriculture, Supply Chain, Business, or…