Location:Utica, ny
Job Type: Full-Time
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Manufacturing to lead our production operations. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring top-tier quality and safety standards, and developing high-performing teams within our manufacturing plant. The ideal candidate has strong leadership experience in large-scale bakery or frozen dough manufacturing and a proven track record of improving efficiencies, quality, and profitability.
Key Responsibilities
Continuously update and improve training plans to meet evolving company policies and procedures.
Lead, direct, and monitor all aspects of manufacturing production with strong cross-functional leadership.
Ensure compliance with all company policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Build, maintain, and develop a fully staffed and well-trained workforce.
Oversee production planning, scheduling, quality adherence, processing, materials management, and packaging.
Collaborate closely with all departments to support smooth operations.
Execute strategies to enhance production capability, quality, cost efficiency, and order fulfillment.
Maintain and improve employee safety, well-being, and adherence to workplace standards.
Train and mentor direct reports on performance management and succession planning.
Identify, propose, and implement initiatives to increase profitability.
Maximize production efficiency and optimize labor utilization.
Develop and manage annual manufacturing budgets.
Ensure the completion of all required manufacturing reports.
Facilitate and oversee the transition of new R&D projects into full manufacturing processes.
Develop and maintain industry-leading food safety and quality processes.
Analyze daily productivity, waste, and quality reports, as well as financial and trend analysis data.
Hold staff accountable for goals, standards, and responsibilities; implement corrective actions when needed.
Create and implement new departmental SOPs to drive improved performance.
Partner with cross-functional department leaders to align on strategy and execution.
Serve as a leadership resource during off-hours and weekends as required.
Preferably certified in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Two (2) years of experience as a Production Manager or a four-year degree in a related field preferred.
Six (6+) years of leadership experience required.
Strong communication skills with the ability to give clear, constructive feedback.
Experience in large-scale bakery and/or frozen dough manufacturing strongly preferred.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
