NewFood Operations Supervisor LSG Sky ChefsFood Operations SupervisorMinneapolis, MN$59,796.82–$74,746.03At SkyChefs, the Food Operations Supervisor plays a critical role in leading daily production activities in our Food Production environment to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely preparation of high-quality food items for airline catering. As a trusted partner to the nation’s leading airlines and retailers, we proudly deliver millions of meals and exceptional service experiences every year across 43 sites throughout the United States.
NewOperations Supervisor - Early Shift Forward AirOperations Supervisor - Early ShiftEagan, MNThe Operations Supervisor will provide planning for, direction to, and will control available resources associated with the timely, damage-free, and safe loading/unloading of freight on assigned shifts. Directly supervise all activities of dockworkers and support personnel engaged in loading and unloading trucks and trailers.
NewGas Operations Supervisor WMGas Operations SupervisorMinneapolis, MNThis position reports to the Area Gas Operations Manager (AGOM) and is responsible for the operation and maintenance of landfill gas collection and control systems (GCCS) including the supervision and direction of Gas Technician I and Gas Technician II positions as well as contractors. Hands on construction using materials such as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and/or High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) piping materials and associated equipment to perform maintenance on piping or other components of the gas collection system.
Supervisor - Full Time Pure HockeySupervisor - Full TimeBloomington, MN$15.50–$20.25 / hourThe Supervisor position provides an opportunity, in a leading retail setting, to excel in a growing, high impact, customer focused role, working both independently and as a member of a team, to positively impact the lives of others. · Partner with management to establish and communicate all critical metrics and expectations within the store, including but not limited to sales, visual, operations, safety, loss prevention, human resources, payroll/scheduling, and training.
Quality Supervisor JobotQuality SupervisorChaska, MN$90,000–$110,000 / yearThis includes building consistency, improving training and documentation, strengthening internal audit readiness, supporting ISO 9001 certification, and partnering cross-functionally with operations, warehouse, manufacturing, sales, customer service, and engineering. Information collected and processed as part of your Jobot candidate profile, and any job applications, resumes, or other information you choose to submit is subject to Jobot's Privacy Policy, as well as the Jobot California Worker Privacy Notice and Jobot Notice Regarding Automated Employment Decision Tools which are available at jobot.com/legal.
Production Supervisor JobotProduction SupervisorBlaine, MN$70,000–$85,000 / yearInformation collected and processed as part of your Jobot candidate profile, and any job applications, resumes, or other information you choose to submit is subject to Jobot's Privacy Policy, as well as the Jobot California Worker Privacy Notice and Jobot Notice Regarding Automated Employment Decision Tools which are available at jobot.com/legal. 2024 marks 30 years of this commitment to our customers, and while we remain laser-focused on the future, one of the best ways to do that is by reflecting on the past.
NewOperations Coordinator Sightpath MedicalOperations CoordinatorBloomington, MN$22–$25 / hourSightpath Medical is the premier cataract and LASIK mobile services provider in the U.S. We strive for excellent customer service and share the common goal of providing high quality ophthalmic services and products to doctors and facilities across the country. Research and analyze service routes to ensure compliance with DOT regulations and identify most cost efficient service routes.
NewCook Supervisor - Competitive Benefits SummitCook Supervisor - Competitive BenefitsIhlen, MN$50,000–$55,000 / yearAs a registered dietitian, you will have the opportunity to provide nutritional expertise to field operation employees and clients associated with the company and provide nutritionally adequate, cost effective menus. Understands the nutritional requirements and the regulatory processes of the National School Lunch (NSLP) and Breakfast Programs (SBP) and plans juvenile menus based on nutritional requirements of the NSLP and SBP.
Service Manager – Security Systems & Low-Voltage Pro-Tec DesignService Manager – Security Systems & Low-VoltageMinnetonka, MNFull timePhysical security, electronic security, low-voltage systems, service operations, field service management, commercial security systems, access control, video surveillance, VMS, intrusion detection, intercom, service contracts, recurring monthly revenue, dispatch, scheduling, technician supervision, subcontractor management, customer retention, service profitability, service ticket management, warranty administration, commercial integrator environment. Pro-Tec Design is a purpose-driven Twin Cities security technology integrator, providing consulting, design and installation of Video Surveillance, Card Access Control, Intercom, and Intrusion systems.
NewScheduling & Planning Supervisor Scribe OpCo Inc dba Koozie GroupScheduling & Planning SupervisorRed Wing, MN$70,000–$78,000 / yearPaid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Personal) Tuition Reimbursement Advancement Opportunities (as soon as 6 months) Employee Referral Bonus Program Annual Performance Reviews Employee Discount Program Job Summary for Scheduling & Planning Supervisor: The Scheduling & Planning Manager is responsible for analyzing and prioritizing work for manufacturing operations and creating and maintaining production schedules that meet the needs of Koozie Group’s internal and external customers. The Scheduling & Planning Manager collaborates cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, Purchasing, Customer Relations, and Operations to ensure alignment, effective communication, and minimal disruption to customers and the business.
Dietary Supervisor - Long Term Care - Full Time Days Good SamaritanDietary Supervisor - Long Term Care - Full Time DaysTrimont, MN$20.50–$33Maintains departmental applications and designs process flows for implementation of changes, enhancements, and interfaces collaborating with information services to set realistic timeframes. Join our not-for-profit organization that has provided over 100 years of housing and services to seniors with a commitment to quality care and service in a Christian environment.
NewProduction Supervisor - Metal Finising/Plating- 1st Shift AVTEC FINISHINGProduction Supervisor - Metal Finising/Plating- 1st ShiftNew Hope, MN$33.17–$46.63 / hourBecause many applicants don't answer calls from unfamiliar numbers and emails may be overlooked, text messaging is our preferred method of communication for faster updates and scheduling. You understand that personal mobile devices are secured during working hours and may only be accessed during scheduled breaks in designated areas due to customer and security requirements.
Production Supervisor AgropurProduction SupervisorLe Sueur, MN$69,500–$86,900The Production Supervisor supervises the operation of workers and equipment in the production and packaging area, while applying learned knowledge of processes involved and production methods. Completion of Master Sanitation Schedule (MSS) documents in preparation for audits with daily sign-off if required, providing appropriate information to Quality Assurance as required.
Supervisor, Transportation Mclane Company, Inc.Supervisor, TransportationOtsego, MN$80,000We look to the future and are ready to continue making industry-defining moves by embracing the newest technology into our practices, continuing teammate training, and emphasizing our people-centered culture. Building an expansive nationwide network of teammates for 130+ years has allowed us to stay agile for our clients across the Restaurant, Retail, and E-Commerce industries.
Maintenance Supervisor - UniFirst UniFirstMaintenance Supervisor - UniFirstSouth Saint Paul, MN$90,000–$100,000The fabric of UniFirst is woven from its very unique family culture where our Team Partners enjoy a small company feel while taking advantage of the resources and stability that come with being a 1.5-billion-dollar organization. Maintenance administration experience including planning, scheduling, budgeting, negotiating, parts management, vendor management, maintenance management systems is required.
Maintenance Supervisor ConfidentialMaintenance SupervisorMinneapolis, MNThe Maintenance Supervisor's primary responsibilities are hands on maintenance of the property including general upkeep and repair to units and the grounds, ensuring the service request tracking system is used and followed up with properly, turn and make ready processes run smoothly, supervising the maintenance team, and maintaining excellent resident relations through superior customer service. Assists Property Manager with creating turn make ready board, key replacement process, vendor key system and all other turn related processes, such as ordering turn supplies/appliances for the units in a timely manner while remaining in line with the allotted budget.
NewTravel House Supervisor RN Fusion Medical StaffingTravel House Supervisor RNMinneapolis, MNThis role encompasses staff supervision, patient flow management, crisis intervention, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient care and hospital operations. The House Supervisor RN provides leadership and oversight of nursing operations during shifts to ensure quality care, patient safety, and smooth hospital functioning.
NewGroup Home Program Supervisor SevitaGroup Home Program SupervisorMinneapolis, MN$19Medications: When applicable, accurately administers or supports self-administration of medication and documents delivery of medications and treatments; reviews all other medication documentation for accuracy and completeness, daily or weekly as required; reviews medication errors with employees; communicates medication changes and provides training across all shifts; maintains appropriate security of medications and supplies. Vehicles: When applicable, test drives vehicle monthly; inspects vehicle lifts and seatbelts monthly; reports safety concerns immediately to supervisor or maintenance personnel; assures vehicle is washed and cleaned; trains staff in safe vehicle operation and safely transporting individuals; ensures routine maintenance is performed.
NewProgram Supervisor - Mankato, MN Harry Meyering CenterProgram Supervisor - Mankato, MNSkyline, MN$22–$23 / hourProgram Supervisor – Mankato Area Harry Meyering Center is a non-profit focused on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in the community with a person-centered way of thinking. Powered by JazzHR Compensation details: 22-23 Hourly Wage PI0729d078c878-25448-409863625c143e31-5e48-4549-b638-05792d185386
NewFacility Cleaner Supervisor LSG Sky ChefsFacility Cleaner SupervisorMinneapolis, MN$59,796.82–$74,746.03As a trusted partner to the nation’s leading airlines and retailers, we proudly deliver millions of meals and exceptional service experiences every year across 43 sites throughout the United States. The porter team plays a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the kitchen and other operational areas, ensuring a safe and hygienic working environment.
Operations Supervisor - 2nd Shift Tennant CoOperations Supervisor - 2nd ShiftMinneapolis, MN$72,800–$109,500 / yearDemonstrated ability to work independently, organize and accurately prioritize work, be detail oriented, understand when urgency is required and use good judgment in varied situations. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide the necessary leadership to manage, coach and direct assigned teams to meet safety, quality, delivery, cost metrics.
Operations Supervisor - Willmar Viking Coca-ColaOperations Supervisor - WillmarWillmar, MN$65,000–$75,000 / yearViking Coca-Cola remains a dedicated family-run establishment that includes the Faber family and extends beyond to all members of the team including delivery drivers, sales personnel, executive management, and our partners. By upholding consistent operating procedures, you will play a crucial part in delivering excellence in customer service and driving our company forward in a fast-paced and customer-centric environment.
Operations Supervisor Viking Coca-ColaOperations SupervisorWillmar, MN$65,000–$75,000 / yearViking Coca-Cola remains a dedicated family-run establishment that includes the Faber family and extends beyond to all members of the team including delivery drivers, sales personnel, executive management, and our partners. By upholding consistent operating procedures, you will play a crucial part in delivering excellence in customer service and driving our company forward in a fast-paced and customer-centric environment.
Branch Operations Supervisor - Commercial Insurance Insurance Office of AmericaBranch Operations Supervisor - Commercial InsuranceBrooklyn Park, MNRemote$60,000–$80,000 / yearFull timeAbout the Role: Responsible for direct management of Account Team staff, including assigning tasks and managing workflows, monitoring and improving staff performance, scheduling, human resource management, staffing, training, staff development, staff communication and support, process, policy, and procedure compliance, and modeling core values. Please note: If this position is posted as either fully remote and/or hybrid, in accordance with company policy, individuals residing within a 50-mile radius of a branch location may be required to work onsite in a hybrid capacity as there may be occasions when on-site presence is necessary to meet specific business needs.
Management Training Program Operations Supervisor ArcBest CorpManagement Training Program Operations SupervisorEagan, MN$52,600–$58,100 / yeart Requirements\t EducationBachelor\s Degree Business Supply Chain Management or related field preferredComputer SkillsProficient in Microsoft Office Suite requiredAdditional RequirementsGeneral knowledge of freight imports exports and proper freight handling techniques preferredMust be willing to relocate requiredCompetenciesActive LearningCustomer FocusEffective CommunicationsProblem SolvingSolutions and Services\t Other Details Work HoursSchedule may vary depending on Service Center location. With over a century of experience 240 service centers spanning North America and an unwavering commitment to quality safety and customer service ABF offers best-in-class LTL transportation for companies of all sizes and industries.
Project Finance Operations Supervisor M. A. Mortenson CoProject Finance Operations SupervisorMinneapolis, MN$103,200–$154,800 / yearBachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration or related field; professional certification preferred (CPA, CCIFP, or CMA) • Minimum of 7 years related experience • Previous experience with large ERP System • Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills • Positive professional attitude and strong customer service skills • Ability to understand complex construction business concepts • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to handle multiple projects at a time • Strong written and oral communication skills • Ability to communicate complex financial concepts to internal and external customers • Leadership skills; ability to set direction and implement changes across a team • Effectively work with those of diverse backgrounds and organizational levels. Mortenson's Civil Operating Group is currently seeking a Project Finance Operations Supervisor to provide accounting, analysis, and financial support to the project teams.
Operations Supervisor Republic Services IncOperations SupervisorInver Grove Heights, MN$82,600–$113,650 / yearRepublic has partnered with renewable gas developers to construct Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plants at our landfills, expanding beyond the 77 projects we currently have to make progress towards our goal to beneficially reuse 50% more biogas by 2030 (2017 baseline year). Oversee effective safety and accident prevention programs to ensure all reasonable actions are taken to prevent accidents and injuries; ensure a safe and productive work environment for all employees; implement and maintain and effective loss control and safety program.
Operations Supervisor Badger Infrastructure SolutionsOperations SupervisorMinneapolis, MNFull timePrevious experience required in one of the following areas: Vacuum, Pump Trucks Commercial Underground Construction, Oil and Gas, Underground Utility, Waste, Equipment Rental, Trucking / Fleet Management. They oversee many aspects of the day-to-day operations including but not limited to ensuring the operators follow proper safety protocol, onboarding and training new operators, and customer service to clients.
Court Operations Supervisor - Dakota County District Court - Traffic/Criminal Minnesota Judicial BranchCourt Operations Supervisor - Dakota County District Court - Traffic/CriminalApple Valley, MNMinnesota Judicial Branch employees consistently express pride in their public service and in the quality of programs and services provided to customers, as well as appreciation for the teamwork and collaboration that is promoted within the MJB. We celebrate and are committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and actively seek and value diversity in professional background and cultural characteristics. Performs a wide variety of complex court clerical and supervisory clerical assignments; reviews and processes legal documents, assures completeness and accuracy of court records; schedules cases, may be responsible for a specialized case processing activity such as preparing appeals; answers.
Operations Supervisor - 3rd Shift Thomson ReutersOperations Supervisor - 3rd ShiftEagan, MinnesotaFinally, Thomson Reuters offers the following additional benefits: optional hospital, accident and sickness insurance paid 100% by the employee; optional life and AD&D insurance paid 100% by the employee; Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts; fitness reimbursement; access to Employee Assistance Program; Group Legal Identity Theft Protection benefit paid 100% by employee; access to 529 Plan; commuter benefits; Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance; Tuition Reimbursement; and access to Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Industry Competitive Benefits: We offer comprehensive benefit plans to include 3 weeks vacation, 10 sick days, 9 company holidays, 3 floating days, uniform and laundry service, two company-wide Mental Health Days off, access to the Headspace app, retirement savings, tuition reimbursement, employee incentive programs, and resources for mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.
Operations Supervisor Lunds & ByerlysOperations SupervisorSt Louis Park, MN$18–$21 / hourLunds & Byerlys St Louis Park is currently hiring for a vibrant and outgoing Part Time Modified Operations Supervisor to create a sensational shopping experience for our customers! Not only do we offer convenient, healthy, and contemporary delectables, we believe in giving our grocery customers the same personal attention and exceptional value we would expect for our own family.
Operations Supervisor - 3rd Shift Thomson Reuters CorpOperations Supervisor - 3rd ShiftEagan, MN$74,200–$137,800 / yearFinally, Thomson Reuters offers the following additional benefits: optional hospital, accident and sickness insurance paid 100% by the employee; optional life and AD&D insurance paid 100% by the employee; Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts; fitness reimbursement; access to Employee Assistance Program; Group Legal Identity Theft Protection benefit paid 100% by employee; access to 529 Plan; commuter benefits; Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance; Tuition Reimbursement; and access to Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Industry Competitive Benefits: We offer comprehensive benefit plans to include 3 weeks vacation, 10 sick days, 9 company holidays, 3 floating days, uniform and laundry service, two company-wide Mental Health Days off, access to the Headspace app, retirement savings, tuition reimbursement, employee incentive programs, and resources for mental, physical, and financial wellbeing.
Customer Finance Operations Supervisor The Schwan Food CompanyCustomer Finance Operations SupervisorMN$60,000–$68,000 / yearIn this role, the Trade Spend Supervisor is responsible for supervising staff to ensure all controls, processes and procedures are followed related to all trade spending (deductions and checks) and processed in a timely and efficient manner and incompliance with agreed upon program requirements, including adherence to all internal guidelines and accounting rules. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life.
Customer Finance Operations Supervisor Schwan's CompanyCustomer Finance Operations SupervisorHopkins, MN$60,000–$68,000 / yearIn this role, the Trade Spend Supervisor is responsible for supervising staff to ensure all controls, processes and procedures are followed related to all trade spending (deductions and checks) and processed in a timely and efficient manner and incompliance with agreed upon program requirements, including adherence to all internal guidelines and accounting rules. From kids devouring pizza after soccer practice, to students laughing over dumplings in a cafeteria, to families enjoying pie during the holidays, our team members play an important role in bringing those everyday moments to life.
Operations Supervisor 3MOperations SupervisorHutchinson, MN$95,591–$116,834 / yearTo set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications: High School diploma/GED or higher (completed and verified prior to start). The specific compensation offered to a candidate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience.
Operations Supervisor Braun Intertec CorporationOperations SupervisorDuluth, MinnesotaProficient or able to learn software used in day to day operations such as Metafield, Microsoft Dynamics AX, and Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, as well as other Braun Intertec and industry software. Perform quality control review of the testing and inspection work performed by assigned staff; identify, investigate and resolve internal and external quality issues on projects.
Operations Supervisor - Supply Chain Management Mayo ClinicOperations Supervisor - Supply Chain ManagementRochester, MN$97,448–$136,448 / yearFacilitates, organizes and participates with institutional and departmental task forces to address some Supply Chain Management issues, Procure to Pay and Master Data Management issues, enhance Mayo Clinic policies, improve operational processes, and enhance the unit's ability to respond to vendor, procurement, accounts payable, employee reimbursement and policy issues. Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of six (6) years' relevant experience in supply chain, health care, finance, accounting, business, communication or systems, which includes three (3) years' previous lead/supervisor experience; Master's degree preferred.
Supervisor, Freight Operations XPO IncSupervisor, Freight OperationsOwatonna, MN$59,202–$74,003 / yearCoach and develop employees on proper techniques and quality requirements, including conducting new hire employee evaluations and determining whether to issue corrective action for violations of XPO's workplace policies. Inspect working conditions of tools and equipment needed for safe operation within the workplace and direct the correction of any improper or adverse conditions that exist.
Operations Supervisor - Dakota Bulk Kinder Morgan IncOperations Supervisor - Dakota BulkMN$81,500–$118,200 / yearRequires the ability to supervise and support numerous operations simultaneously including the Process operations - o rebar and other steel unloading and loading, loading and unloading of multiple grain products o salt loading and unloading, loading Frac sand rail cars o other bulk commodities o cement unloading by rail and barge. Demonstrated knowledge and experience relative to bulk operations including experience with rail loading and unloading, truck loading and unloading, and barge loading and unloading.
Full-Time Stockroom Operations Supervisor Kohl's CorpFull-Time Stockroom Operations SupervisorBemidji, MN$19.50–$30.25 / hourMaintain appropriate levels of product on the sales floor by processing incoming freight, managing an accurate stockroom and directing floor replenishment as necessary based on sell through and seasonal changes. In this role, you will be the expert in store operational processes, supervising store operations while working alongside and leading associates to deliver excellent customer service and operational efficiency.
NewSales Floor Supervisor (Operations) - Virginia Store L&M Fleet SupplySales Floor Supervisor (Operations) - Virginia StoreVirginia, MN$20–$24 / hourAdditional role responsibilities include ensuring customer service is a priority, overseeing employee tasks & work assignments, resolving customer issues/concerns, ensuring policies & procedures, addressing employee issues, coaching, performance reviews, and other day to day tasks. Our Perfect Match: We are looking for someone who loves to supervise employees & store operations, loves to communicate with customers & likes to have fun at work, while getting things done.
Assistant Supervisor - Security Operations Center Mayo ClinicAssistant Supervisor - Security Operations CenterRochester, MN$32.39–$43.73 / hourIn the absence of a SOC Supervisor, provides watch officer coverage of security incidents identified through open-source information monitoring and oversees response processes related to the dispatch of Campus Security Officers Enterprise-wide and the escalation of moderate to severe incidents to Security Leadership. Bachelor's degree with one year of operations center, security, healthcare, law enforcement or military experience or Associates degree with three years of operations center, security, healthcare, law enforcement or military experience or HS/GED with five years of operations center, security, healthcare, law enforcement or military experience.
Operations Control Center Supervisor Roth Staffing CompaniesOperations Control Center SupervisorBloomington, Minnesota$105,000–$114,400Managing the designated shift, this role directs workflow, supports a team of Control Center Operators, and takes full accountability for shift operations. Supervise & Schedule: Oversee OCC Operators during your shift, manage the 24/7 multi-person crew schedule, and step in as the active supervisor or Level II Operator when needed.
Manufacturing Operations Supervisor ITWManufacturing Operations SupervisorEden Prairie, MinnesotaCross‑Functional Collaboration - Serve as the primary representative for assigned area(s), collaborating with internal teams and external partners to meet operational goals and support broader MTS goals. At MTS, it’s a rewarding career path for talented individuals who are willing to work hard, think hard, and commit to solving complex and critical challenges for our customers around the world, many of whom are leaders in their respective industries.
Assistant Supervisor-Security Operations Mayo ClinicAssistant Supervisor-Security OperationsRed Wing, MN$27.99–$37.78 / hourThey will frequently be walking, standing, stooping, bending, lifting, pulling, climbing, reaching, and pushing, and occasionally running; is able to move quickly up and down stairwells, from the ground floor up to the top floor of each building without assistance; assists patients, volunteers, visitors, and staff with emergency evacuations, including evacuations in stairwells, to include handling emergency evacuation devices used to transport patients and others to safety; makes effective decisions as an emergency first responder, is confident in stressful situations, and works as a team member with other emergency responders, including law enforcement and fire/rescue personnel. Experience in a healthcare setting preferred; experience in patrolling, incident report writing, defensive tactics, emergency response, lock/unlock procedures, door access, and CCTV camera operation; experience with Windows XP or newer as well as intermediate skills in Microsoft Office software applications; technical aptitude to work with Security Technology is preferred.
Operations Supervisor Arctic Cat IncOperations SupervisorThief River Falls, MN$26.44–$28.85 / hourCommunicate with production control, logistics, assembly team, fabrication team, engineering, and parts and accessories to support production demand, growth initiatives and customer service. Responsibilities: Organize operations within assigned work area and coordinate production activities to meet production schedules in the most efficient and effective manner.
Court Operations Supervisor, Hennepin County, Downtown Minneapolis Criminal Division Minnesota Judicial BranchCourt Operations Supervisor, Hennepin County, Downtown Minneapolis Criminal DivisionMinneapolis, MNThe Court Operations Supervisor leads the day-to-day operations of the Criminal Division: planning, supervising and reviewing the functions and daily operations of personnel; establishing workloads and schedules; analyzing and streamlining work processes; assisting in the development of strategic goals and overseeing implementation at the divisional level; and working with the public, judges, court staff, partnering criminal justice departments and county or state agencies to ensure that records are processed in a timely and accurate manner that is consistent with the Court's mission and vision. Minnesota Judicial Branch employees consistently express pride in their public service and in the quality of programs and services provided to customers, as well as appreciation for the teamwork and collaboration that is promoted within the MJB. We celebrate and are committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and actively seek and value diversity in professional background and cultural characteristics.