Production Operations Manager

Summary

CHS, Inc has an exciting opportunity as a Production Operations Manager at our sunflower plant in Fargo, ND. The Production Operations Manager reports to the Director, Production Operations and is responsible for executing the organizations strategic vision, building culture and driving operational excellence. This includes the leadership and management of all aspects of the Fargo, ND Sunflower plant, a ready to eat (RTE) sunflower roasting, pasteurization and packaging operations. This position is also responsible for ensuring workplace safety policies, environmental regulations, best in class operational procedures are identified and followed, and creates strong culture of performance including talent development and coaching of the facility team. 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the facility to maximize efficiencies and control expenses to drive profitability.
• Partner with sales, marketing, and supply chain teams to ensure we are meeting allotted timelines to achieve maximum margin of profitability. Establish strong, collaborative relationships with these key stakeholders.
• Lead with a LEAN/Continuous Improvement mindset. Drive consistency and standardization across the facility. Identify areas of improvement in the facility and create a collaborative action plan to address and improve efficiencies and profitability.
• Manage the workforce through responsible training and clear job assignment definition and explanation, including organizational chart, job descriptions, and regular employee reviews.
• Provide strategic direction and support to production supervisors.
• Partner with Human Resources to create and implement appropriate staff training and development opportunities, manage hiring, scheduling, and disciplinary processes.
• Strong emphasis on developing talent and succession planning.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Utilize team/personnel within business unit to maximize profitability as a company.
• Ensure the facility maintains a Ready To Eat (RTE) food environment.
• Partner with QA manager on continuous improvement, documentation, team member training and internal audits.
• Partner with EH&S coordinator onsite to maintain and promote a strong safety culture and follow all safety policies, procedures, and regulations. Identify and communicate workplace hazards and correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions.
• Perform other responsibilities as needed or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (required)

• High School diploma or GED
• Minimum of 4+ years’ experience in a production or manufacturing environment
• Prior leadership experience with progressively advancing levels of leadership responsibilities

Additional Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred in Engineering, Supply Chain, Management or related field
• Experience in a Ready to Eat (RTE) food production facility
• 2+ years’ experience leading a team in a RTE food production facility
• LEAN or HACCP Certification
• PCQI Certification
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations in a RTE food production facility
• Ability to make decisions and work effectively both independently and with a team
• Detail oriented with strong communication skills, both verbal and written with an ability to influence others
• Possess strong organizational skills
• Experience collaborating with stakeholders across the enterprise
• Ability to re-prioritize and be adaptable to changing customer demands
• Prior experience leading coaching and talent development conversations
• Ability to work extended hours as needed to meet business demand.
• Pre-employment screening is based on the job requirements and industry guidelines and may or may not be required for the position. If required, selected candidates must pass pre-employment screenings to include all or a combination of drug, criminal, motor vehicle check, physical requirements and FMSCA Clearinghouse.