We have the ambition to be the no.1 global expert in solutions for freeze-dried fruit in segments like retail, drinks, cereals, and confectionary in B2C (Retail) and B2B. Our team is international, collaborative, with a strong can-do mentality. The Americas team is scaling up and looking for an experienced Director of Operations working from our plant/office in the Portland Oregon area.
ROLE
We are looking for someone extremely talented in operations, balancing the fine line between delivering daily results, as well as continuously developing and improving the way of working and performance. This could be transformational, but will more likely be a journey, where you will focus on getting 1% better with the team every week. The ideal candidate for this position has the capability to lead processes in an organized way, while always seeing the big picture and focusing and delivering on clear business goals.
The Director of Operations will report to the COO and work in tandem with the Head of Sales B2B to deliver operational excellence every day and develop the best freeze-dried solutions for our customers. The position will be leading a multidisciplinary team with Plant Management, Finance, HR, NPD, Supply Chain, Purchasing, Customer Service and Project Management, collaborating with the global team. The role will be actively involved in shaping the future vision, strategy, and structure based on the company growth ambitions for the next 5 years.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Leading and developing a team with direct reports, most with a direct line, some with adotted line. Indirect reports are 100+ employees, predominantly in production under thePlant Manager.
- P&L responsible for Operations in the Americas (financials will be shared confidentially).
- In scope is freeze-drying and packaging of all products manufactured in Forest Grove.Besides that, our company develops and produces products in other countries forcustomers in the Americas, which must be fully aligned with Operations Americas.
- Actively driving all Objectives, Goals, Strategies and Measurables (OGSMs) with keyperformance indicators (KPIs) and metrics for Operations.
- Key sponsor for implementing a new way of working based on Project and PortfolioManagement and aligning goals with the NPD department.
REQUIREMENTS
- 15+ years of experience in food manufacturing and operations, ideally in freeze-dryingand/or fruit.
- Master’s degree in Operations, Business Administration, or another relevant field.
- Natural leader, able to create a collaborative team of specialized individuals.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, written and verbal communication.
- Experience in continuous improvement programs and development of vision and strategy.
