Operations Manager - Royal Canin - North Sioux City SD

The Operations Manager leads and integrates the efforts of operating teams across multiple shifts to ensure that products are safely manufactured in a quality and food safe environment. The Operations Manager is responsible for efficiently and effectively leading the area within cost targets to produce sufficient quantities to meet our customer’s demands with engaged associates.  The Operations Manager will also provide leadership and motivation on Strategy, Individual Business Objectives (IBOs), Factory Mars Operating System (FMOS), Manufacturing Supply Excellence (MSE), assets, and Associate Development.  As required, the Operations Manager may act as the sole authority over all area assets and activities during periods of Site Director absence.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, preferably in Engineering, Basic Sciences, or Business-related disciplines. Advanced degree is preferred.

• Minimum of 6 years’ experience in a production or business environment.  Experience in the Food or Pet Industry is preferred.

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in people leadership roles.

• Proven experience managing a site’s operating budgets.

• Ability to lead and manage projects across multiple functions, organizational levels, and sites.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Quality and Safety standards. Proficiency of HACCP is required.

• Technical expertise in processes, equipment, controls, and products.

• Understanding of Food and Drug Laws and OSHA requirements.

• Strong knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.

• Comprehensive understanding of major plant functions and the ability to collaborate effectively with all levels and departments.

What would your key responsibilities be?

• Conversion & Operations:Lead multi-line, multi-shift teams to efficiently convert materials into quality products, ensuring safety, sanitation, and budget adherence. Oversee capacity planning, maintenance, engineering, R&D, and scheduling.

• Food Safety & Quality:Champion ongoing production of safe, defect-free products. Own HACCP training and quality improvement initiatives. Partner with Q&FS to maintain and enhance Quality Management Processes.

• Continuous Improvement:Advocate for Mars Supply Excellence (MSE) and site operating systems (FMOS). Drive value stream improvements and coach teams in MSE Pillar implementation.

• Change Leadership:Recommend and implement process, equipment, and organizational changes. Collaborate cross-functionally to achieve area objectives and support network-wide improvements.

• Associate Advocacy:Manage associate relations, hiring, training, and development. Foster engagement and teamwork, utilizing High Performance Collaboration and Great Line Management principles.

• Goal Setting & Measurement:Establish and align area goals with site strategy. Set performance standards, measure results, and report outcomes. Support budget and KPI development.

• Communications:Ensure open, effective communication across teams and leadership. Escalate issues per protocol.

• Technology Advancement:Coach teams in technical proficiency and autonomous work. Drive technological improvements in partnership with Technical Manager.

• Operations Strategy:Develop and execute a rolling three-year strategy aligned with brand growth and innovation.

• Associate Development:Evaluate performance, create development plans, and conduct regular reviews to support career growth.

• Personal Development:Pursue ongoing managerial and technical learning opportunities.

• Site Management:Act as a senior leader, supporting overall site strategy and stepping in for the Site Director as needed.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.

• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

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