OPERATIONS MANAGER
: Job Details :

Are you prepared to manage the production of a premier fruit processing company across North America? Our client, Zentis, Europes frontrunner in fruit processing and a top-tier brand manufacturer of jams, sweets, and custard-based desserts, has engaged us exclusively seeking a strategic and assertive Operations Manager to oversee their production operations in the Plymouth, IN plant. This role is pivotal in ensuring the seamless production of high-quality fruity delights, from masterful fruit preparations for the Dairy industry to delightful sauces for food service, and everything in between.

About Our Client Zentis:

Zentis is Europe's leading fruit processing company, celebrated for crafting the most delectable jams, sweets, and custard-based desserts. In North America, Zentis operates from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Plymouth, Indiana, serving a diverse range of customers in the yogurt, ice cream, bakery, coffee, and food service industries. Their global headquarters in Aachen, Germany, alongside R&D teams in Poland and Hungary, form the backbone of their innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Role Overview:

As the Operations Manager, you will be the driving force behind the efficient and effective production processes at Zentis Plymouth, Indiana facility. Reporting directly to the VP of Operations, you will oversee the 24/7 aseptic and conventional production operations, as well as logistics, managing 2 direct reports and a team of 210 dedicated employees. Your leadership will be crucial in fostering a culture of operational excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. You will ensure that operations run seamlessly and efficiently, adhering to all necessary regulations while maximizing the use of available resources.

Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Provide strategic oversight and leadership to enhance production efficiency, quality, and safety. Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets and improve overall productivity.
• Team Management: Lead and mentor a diverse team of production staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Analyze team structures and processes to maximize productivity and innovation.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement process improvements to optimize production workflows. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and product quality.
• Resource Allocation: Manage resources effectively to meet business priorities, including maintenance, production schedules, and growth goals. Ensure sustainable success through strategic resource planning.
• Quality Assurance: Maintain high standards of quality assurance throughout the production process. Implement and oversee quality control measures to ensure compliance with industry standards and customer expectations.

Skills & Competencies:

• Operational Excellence: Strong background in managing and optimizing production processes and workflows.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams, and lead by example.
• Assertiveness: Ability to communicate confidently and make decisive actions when necessary.
• Strategic Planning: Expertise in developing and implementing strategic operational plans.
• Quality Management: Proficient in quality assurance and control measures.
• Continuous Improvement: Commitment to identifying and implementing process improvements.

Background & Education:

• Bachelors degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Food Science, or a related field.
• 5 10 years of Operations Management experience in food production or manufacturing.
• Experience in managing large production teams.
• Lean manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification preferred.

If you are ready to embark on an exciting journey of operational excellence and production innovation, Zentis North America welcomes you with open arms. Together, you will reshape the future of fruit processing and sweet delights, one efficient process at a time.