Now Hiring
Vice President of Operations
Ferndale, WA
Our quality products have a heritage dating back to the early 1800’s at the Hempler’s family sausage kitchen in Borken, Germany. Hans Hempler worked in the family sausage business in Germany as a youngster. He served as an apprentice sausage maker and learned first-hand the family’s old secret recipes becoming a master sausage maker before moving to the United States. Hans came to the United States in 1928 and, in those early years, worked hard and saved his money. It is our mission, and passion, to produce and distribute the highest quality products, while operating with the highest integrity and standards for personalized service to our customers. We strive to achieve these results by purchasing high quality ingredients and by employing passionate people, training them well, and developing an extended “family” of employees dedicated to accomplishing our mission.
The VP of Operations is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the Hempler Foods Group LLC. The VP of Operations works closely with the CEO and other executive team members to develop and implement business strategies and ensure the organization meets its operational goals. The position is 30% Tactical and 70% Strategic. This role provides effective leadership and strategic direction of all manufacturing operations activities to facilitate a customer driven, accelerated growth business environment. This is a hands-on role responsible for orchestrating the development and implementation of operations strategy.
Wage: $240,000.00 - $260,000.00 annually, subject to all required taxes and withholdings.
Location of Position: 5470 Nielsen Ave, Ferndale, WA 98248
Relocation: Available for position.
Primary Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Planning and Execution:
- Collaborate with the CEO in setting and driving organizational vision, operational strategy, and hiring needs for the manufacturing group.
- Translate strategy into actionable steps for growth, goal setting, performance management, and annual operations planning.
- Operational Management:
- Oversee daily manufacturing operations of the company and collaborate closely with other cross functional teams (IT, Marketing, Sales, Finance, etc.).
- Ensure the creation and implementation of a strategy designed to grow the business.
- Coordinate the development of key performance goals for functions and direct reports.
- Oversee key projects, processes, and performance reports, data, and analysis.
- Financial Performance:
- Develop and manage the manufacturing operational budget.
- Monitor performance metrics, receive and respond to regular performance updates, and ensure alignment with business objectives.
- Leadership and Development:
- Provide direct supervision and mentorship to senior managers and department heads.
- Foster a success-oriented, accountability focused environment within the company.
- Promote a culture of high performance and continuous improvement that values learning and a commitment to quality.
- Risk Management:
- Identify and manage key risks and issues impacting the business.
- Ensure compliance with national and local business regulations and take appropriate action when necessary.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
- Supports safety as a top priority in training, ergonomics, and regulatory compliance.
- Implements solutions to solve root cause problems.
- Creates an environment that encourages and rewards teamwork and collaboration.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Engineering, Food Science, or related field (MBA preferred).
- Better Process Control School (BPSC) certification preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in operational leadership roles, preferably within the same industry.
- Proven track record of successful strategic planning and execution.
- Experience in managing complex projects and cross-functional teams.
- Food protein production experience required.
- Knowledge of methodologies, tools and techniques for designing, building, and managing the manufacture of new products.
- Must have working knowledge of Food Safety and Regulatory business standards, practices, policies, and procedures.
- Must have working knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations including but not limited to HACCP, GMP’s, SSOP’s, Food Labeling, Import/Export Regulations, GFSI Certification Programs (SQF & BRC).
- Passion for new ideas and change; ability to promote and gain support for innovative concepts internally and externally.
- Leadership ability to inspire and motivate teams; strong team player and results oriented.
- Financial acumen and budget management experience.
- Proficiency in using business management software and tools, including Microsoft Office at a medium-to-experienced user level.
- Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
- Ability to analyze and interpret data, develop action plans, and manage projects to effectively complete and execute new programs as required.
- Well-organized, able to set priorities/goals and maintain focus, following through on multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Innovative, open-minded, flexible thinker capable of developing original, imaginative ideas into practical, manufacturing prototypes.
- Detail-oriented and disciplined, with the ability to clearly document activities and discoveries for organizational value.
- Ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions to meet company timelines and product quality expectations in both product extensions and new innovative product development.
- Works cross-functionally as part of a large or small project team.
- Exhibits a professional attitude at all times; demonstrates a cooperative demeanor and willingness to help others.
Core Competencies
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and manage long-term goals.
- Decision Making: Strong decision-making skills with a focus on results.
- Leadership: Demonstrated leadership and team-building abilities.
- Adaptability: Capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing business environment.
- Communication: Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Integrity: High level of integrity and ethical standards.
ABOUT HEMPLER: We offer a creative environment filled with other talented people. We are committed to rewarding our teammates for their hard work, enthusiasm, and professional excellence. Company perks include:
Benefits
- Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage.
- Annual bonus
- 10 Paid holidays, generous paid time off.
- 401K
- Life Insurance
- Wellness Plan
- Employee Discount
TO APPLY: Hempler’s Food Group is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Hempler’s Food Group is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veterans’ status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Should you have a disability that requires assistance and/or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact us at 1-866-477-4144.
