Production Manager (Gilroy, CA)

Job Responsibilities:
• Lead and oversee daily production operations by directing Production Supervisors in workforce planning, labor allocation, and shift coverage to ensure operational efficiency and productivity; proactively address absenteeism and attendance issues.
• Own and monitor production workforce attendance trends and labor utilization, ensuring compliance with company policies and labor requirements.
• Manage daily production performance by reviewing output, efficiency, and downtime; identify gaps and drive corrective actions in collaboration with supervisors and cross-functional teams.
• Ensure readiness and availability of key production materials, equipment, and resources to prevent production delays and support continuous operations.
• Oversee and manage relationships with external vendors related to production operations, including equipment, consumables, and service providers.
• Develop, review, and maintain production Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring accuracy, consistency, and alignment with operational and regulatory requirements.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate training programs for production staff to support skill development, safety, and operational excellence.
• Prepare, analyze, and present production reports, KPIs, and updates for management meetings and operational reviews.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, Safety Rules, GMP, and regulatory standards by conducting regular audits, inspections, and corrective follow-ups.

Skills/Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in operations management, Industrial Engineering, Food Science, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in manufacturing or food production, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or management role overseeing production teams.
• Proven experience managing Production Supervisors and leading multi-shift operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, food safety standards, OSHA regulations, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage workforce planning, labor allocation, and attendance management in compliance with company policies and labor laws.
• Experience analyzing production KPIs (output, efficiency, downtime, labor utilization) and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement effective corrective actions.
• Experience developing and maintaining SOPs and ensuring operational consistency.
• Ability to lead training initiatives to enhance employee performance, safety awareness, and technical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally (QA, Maintenance, SCM, HR).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and ERP or production management systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed to support production operations.