Operations Manager

For over 30 years, this organization has specialized in contract food manufacturing of acidified, shelf-stable retail and foodservice products. Based in Fresno, California, the company produces high-quality specialty foods packaged in glass, plastic, pouches, pails, and drums. Its product portfolio includes sauces, condiments, garlic products, sun-dried tomatoes, and a variety of ethnic food items serving an expanding global market. The organization is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence.

Position Summary

The Operations Manager is a key member of the leadership team, reporting directly to the VP/CFO, and plays a critical role in driving operational performance and efficiency across the organization. This individual will oversee all core functions, including Supply Chain, Engineering, R&D, Quality Control, and Production.

This role requires hands-on experience in food manufacturing environments involving fresh or shelf-stable salsas, sauces, or similar products. Ideal candidates will have experience with batching and formulation processes (e.g., soups, chunky salsas, pasta sauces, chili sauces, cocktail sauces), with hot-fill-hold experience considered a strong plus.

The Operations Manager will be responsible for executing daily operations, achieving short- and long-term goals, leading cross-functional teams, and implementing process improvements that enhance quality, efficiency, and compliance. This role also plays a key part in strategic planning, project execution, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations across Supply Chain, Production, Engineering, R&D, and Quality Control.
  
• Develop and execute operational strategies to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability.
  
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and food safety standards.
  
• Lead, mentor, and develop cross-functional teams while promoting a high-performance culture.
  
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including process optimization and cost reduction.
  
• Manage procurement of materials and resources to support production demands.
  
• Implement and maintain best practices across all operational functions.
  
• Monitor KPIs and provide high-level reporting to executive leadership.
  
• Lead change management initiatives and support long-term strategic planning.
  
• Enhance customer satisfaction by improving service levels and operational execution.
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).
  
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in food manufacturing or consumer goods.
  
• Strong background in sauces, salsas, or similar formulated/batched products.
  
• Proven experience managing complex manufacturing operations and driving process improvements.
  
• Hands-on experience with wastewater systems and reporting.
  
• Proficiency with ERP systems (NetSuite, Redzone preferred).
  
• Strong understanding of operational systems, cost control, and organizational effectiveness.
  
• Experience with statistical analysis, data processing, and performance metrics.
  
• Solid financial acumen, including budgeting, cash flow management, and P&L oversight.
  
• Demonstrated leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving capabilities.
  
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  
• Up-to-date knowledge of FDA, USDA, SQF, CFIA, CODEX, and local regulatory requirements.
  
• Experience in conflict resolution, negotiation, and business operations management.
  

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including climbing stairs.
  
• Exposure to production environments with elevated noise levels (~85 decibels); hearing protection required.
  
• Exposure to varying temperatures, including cold production areas.
  
• Must wear company-provided PPE while on the production floor.
  
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds as needed.
  
• Combination of plant floor presence and desk/computer-based work.
  
• Must adhere to all safety practices in a continuous improvement environment.