Head of Operations at Excel and Grace Consulting

Job Summary

• The Head of Operations is responsible for the overall operational efficiency and success of the company.
• This role will oversee all aspects of the production, logistics, and supply chain, ensuring smooth and timely delivery of high-quality dairy products to our customers.
• The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and results-oriented leader with a proven track record of success in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities
Production Planning & Management:

• Oversee all aspects of the production process, including milk procurement, processing, packaging, and quality control.
• Monitor production performance against targets and identify areas for improvement.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and optimize production processes to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (e.g., HACCP, FDA regulations).

Supply Chain Management:

• Manage the entire supply chain, from raw milk sourcing to finished goods delivery.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with dairy farmers and suppliers.
• Optimize inventory levels to minimize holding costs and ensure timely delivery of products.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to supply chain performance, such as on-time delivery, order fulfillment accuracy, and logistics costs.

Logistics & Distribution:

• Manage the company's warehousing and distribution operations.
• Oversee the transportation and delivery of dairy products to customers (retailers, wholesalers, etc.).
• Ensure efficient and timely order fulfillment.
• Explore and implement new and innovative logistics solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs (e.g., cold chain management).

Team Leadership & Management:

• Lead and mentor a team of production, logistics, and warehouse personnel.
• Recruit, train, and develop high-performing teams.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Monitor team performance and provide regular feedback.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify and implement process improvements across all areas of operations.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Conduct regular reviews of operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.

Budget Management:

• Develop and manage the operational budget.
• Monitor expenses and ensure that operations are conducted within budget.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement them effectively.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in a senior operations role within the food manufacturing industry, with a strong preference for experience in the dairy sector.
• Proven experience in managing all aspects of the production process, including raw material handling, processing, packaging, and quality control.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles and best practices, including cold chain management.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP systems.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting.

Desired Skills:

• Experience with food safety management systems (e.g., HACCP).
• Knowledge of Six Sigma or other quality improvement methodologies.
• Experience with project management.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skill.