Operations Manager

Grow with Welch's!

Welch's is on a journey towards our bold ambition of being the global-leader of convenient, good for you fruit-based food and beverages. To turn this goal into a reality we need you and other exceptionally talented, agile, and innovative individuals who are eager to contribute to something extraordinary!

At Welch's, we're not just offering a job; we're inviting you to be a part of a vibrant, authentic, and inclusive culture where you not only belong, but also have the opportunity to unleash the best, most authentic version of you.

Position Summary:

We're looking for an Operations Manager to lead Welch's manufacturing operations in North East, PA. Under the direction of the Director of Manufacturing, the Operations Manager will lead and manage all Production/Processing, Packaging, and Distribution processes within the Plant.

The Operations Manager will lead, motivate, and build a team in a collaborative environment, by conveying and driving a compelling vision, focused on a lean and continuously improving culture.

Where You'll Work

This role will be based out of our North East, PA processing & packaging manufacturing facility. Immerse yourself in a dynamic workplace where innovation thrives, and collaboration is key.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the team through an emphasis on both process and people
• Directs leaders responsible for the operations, packaging, distribution, and production planning teams
• Coach teams on the principles of effective production, processing, and packaging processes
• Drive cross-functional collaboration between Operations departments and Engineering, maintenance, and quality to improve machine uptime and food safety/quality
• Develop and mentor a team through development of skills, consistent and timely feedback on performance, and collaborate on individual development plans for skill building
• Collaborate with Safety Manager to drive safety culture, plan, develop, and implement operational safety programs, activities
• Ensure that behaviors, practices, and the work environment support a safe workplace by enforcing safety rules, principles, and absolutes
• Oversee the development and implementation of solid troubleshooting procedures to find root cause and correct product deviations
• Support leadership team and facility through audit preparation and readiness
• Implement foundational tools of operational of operational excellence (Centerline, CIL and defect handling)
• Drive a continuous improvement culture through development, implementation, and use of standard work processes to ensure repeatable performance
• Set manufacturing strategy through identification of trends, anticipating challenges, and adjusting resources to drive performance
• Collaboratively lead financial excellence driving out cost and managing budgetary items
• Oversee reporting and analysis of operational KPIs (OEE, schedule attainment, Adherence, RFT, etc)

Who You Are:

• Expertise in overseeing manufacturing operations, including production planning, production scheduling, line setup and change out, production control, and production optimization.
• Expertise in manufacturing standards and metrics (e.g., KPIs) for safety, quality, production, labor and material variances, and employee relations and retention.
• Experience engaging with customers to plan for and address product, quality, and service requirements and collaborate on service improvement opportunities.
• Expertise in forecasting, budgeting, and P&L management.
• Experience in applying Lean manufacturing concepts to reduce cost and improve productivity; experience developing and organizing continuous improvement programs; demonstrated track record of driving positive change.
• Experience in maintenance and technical programs that reinforces production operations.
• Experience in materials management, including procurement, inventory control, warehouse management, and inbound/outbound logistics.
• Experience managing capital improvement initiatives and expansion plans during ongoing operations.
• Experience in an FDA regulated environment where quality, compliance, and safety are core values.
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