Our exciting manufacturing client is growing and is therefore looking for an Operations Manager to join their business in Grand Rapids. You will oversee all aspects of plant manufacturing, ensuring the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of their products. You will lead and develop a high-performing team across scheduled shifts, driving operational excellence, safety compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead daily plant operations in alignment with company policies and applicable regulations.
- Interview, hire, train, and develop team members; manage performance and foster a positive work environment.
- Oversee the full production lifecycle (mixing, baking, packaging) with a focus on minimizing waste and labour costs.
- Ensure raw material consistency and manage inventory rotation.
- Maintain a safe, organized 5S workplace environment.
- Plan and schedule production activities to meet customer service and company standards.
- Analyze production data, troubleshoot issues, and implement operational improvements.
- Train and develop employees to support future organizational needs.
- Attend and present at meetings as needed to align plant goals with company strategies.
- Ensure compliance with GMP, health, safety, and environmental regulations.
What You Bring
Knowledge and Experience
- 2+ years of plant or operations management experience required.
- Background in Food, CPG, or Pharma manufacturing environments.
- Deep understanding of production processes, procurement, and food safety standards.
- SAP experience and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
Skills
- Strong leadership, team-building, and coaching skills.
- Expertise in conflict resolution and operational decision-making under pressure.
- Ability to strategically plan, manage budgets, and control costs.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities.
- Ability to prioritize multiple initiatives and adapt to changing demands.
Abilities
- Interpret technical documentation, operational instructions, and safety regulations.
- Communicate effectively across all organizational levels.
- Perform physical tasks.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced, collaborative manufacturing environment.
- Ability to balance multiple priorities and meet critical deadlines.
- Commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and productive workplace.
- Flexibility to work extended hours and manage across multiple shifts as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent hands-on operational leadership experience).
- Experience leading a multi-shift, large-scale manufacturing (food or pharmaceuticals) operation.
If this could be of interest to you, please apply with an updated copy of your resume and we will reach out.
$110,000 - $122,000 + bonus.
Office based.