VP of Operations

We are working with a fast-growing food manufacturer in the frozen novelties space that produces its own brands, as well as for other companies and private label. They are looking for a highly skilled VP of Operations to join the team at their brand-new facility in the Wilmington, DE area. The VP of Ops will serve as a key leader responsible for scaling manufacturing, optimizing cost structure, and delivering industry-leading quality and service. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role will lead the development and execution of an integrated operations plan to support their rapid growth. The ideal candidate will bring proven experience leading food manufacturing operations, a thorough understanding of lean systems, and the ability to foster cross-functional alignment in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Location: Wilmington, DE region

Job Responsibilities:

Develop and deploy a multi-year manufacturing strategy aligned with corporate growth goals and operational milestones.
Collaborate with CFO to build appropriate cost analysis, operational KPIs, and forecasting tools to monitor progress and proactively address bottlenecks.
Build and sustain strong relationships across departments through proactive communication and collaboration.
Lead the planning, sourcing, production, and delivery functions to ensure alignment on quality, cost, and service objectives.
Lead continuous improvement efforts to drive throughput, optimize labor, and lower unit manufacturing costs.
Oversee implementation of facility expansion and automation initiatives, including scale-up of rotary molding capabilities.
Implement and sustain efficient manufacturing systems and benchmarking practices to improve plant performance.
Coordinate closely with internal and external partners to support innovation, customization, and reliable fulfillment.
Build and lead a high-performing team across production, supply chain, QA, maintenance, and logistics functions.
Partner with HR to design and implement employee engagement, training, and leadership development programs.
Ensure all production meets or exceeds cGMP standards and customer specifications, with zero compromise on food safety.
Champion sustainable manufacturing practices and implement long-term environmental responsibility programs.

Required Skills/Qualifications:

Bachelor’s in Engineering, Operations, Industrial Management or related field; (Master’s preferred)
12+ years of progressive operations leadership in food manufacturing or CPG; frozen novelty or dairy experience strongly preferred.
Proven track record of scaling plant capacity and leading automation initiatives.
Experience with SQF, HACCP, allergen-control programs, and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrated success managing across branded, private label, and co-manufacturing operations.
Hands-on knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other CI methodologies.
Strong financial acumen and understanding of cost drivers in a manufacturing P&L.
Resilient, flexible, and energized by a high-growth, fast-changing environment.
Inclusive, high-integrity leader who builds trust and alignment.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) highly desirable.

KCO Resource Management

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