Our client, a well-established food manufacturing company in Suffolk, Virginia, is seeking a dynamic General Manager to lead all plant operations. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive operational excellence in a fast-paced production environment while ensuring safety, quality, and financial performance.
The General Manager will oversee the entire facility, including manufacturing, warehouse operations, quality assurance, and supply chain functions. This role requires a proven leader who can manage cross-functional teams, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain the highest standards of food safety and regulatory compliance. You'll work closely with executive leadership to drive strategic initiatives while maintaining hands-on involvement in daily operations.
This position offers the chance to make a significant impact on a growing organization, leading a dedicated team in a competitive industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct all plant operations including production scheduling, inventory management, and warehouse activities
- Develop and enforce standard operating procedures across all functions
- Lead and develop plant leadership teams across multiple departments
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives in productivity, cost reduction, and efficiency
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements (OSHA, FDA, USDA, food safety standards)
- Manage plant budgets and financial performance to achieve business targets
- Champion a culture of safety, quality, and accountability
- Serve as liaison between plant operations and executive leadership
- Support internal and external audits and customer inspections
- Partner with HR and Safety teams on workforce development and training initiatives
Work Environment
This is a hands-on leadership role in an active food manufacturing facility. The position requires:
- Regular presence on the production floor
- Exposure to varying temperatures and non-climate-controlled areas
- Work around food-grade allergens and dust
- Use of personal protective equipment as required
- Ability to respond quickly to operational needs and safety concerns
Requirements
Essential:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, or related field (Master's preferred)
- 8-10+ years of progressive leadership experience in manufacturing or food processing environments
- Full knowledge of SAP for inventory and accounting
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations including HACCP, GMP, and FSMA
- Proven track record in production management, cost reduction, and process optimization
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and foster accountability
- Experience managing budgets with P&L responsibility
- Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to work in a non-climate-controlled manufacturing environment
- Physical ability to stand/walk for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs regularly
Preferred:
- Experience in the peanut or nut processing industry
- Familiarity with preventive and predictive maintenance practices
- Experience managing supply chain functions including procurement, inventory control, and logistics
- OSHA 30-Hour Certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days)
- Bilingual capabilities (English/Spanish)
- Master's degree in related field
Benefits
Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000 annually (depending on experience)
Additional benefits:
- Auto allowance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Life Insurance and AD&D coverage
- Supplemental insurance options
- Generous vacation and PTO
- Paid holidays
- Potential for future bonus structure
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.
Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.
Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
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- Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
- Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.
State-Specific Information:
- Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
- Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
- New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.
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Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.
