Operations Manager

Roles and responsibilities

We are looking for an experienced Operations Manager across our brands at Independent Food Company. The Operations Manager will play a key role in ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of all aspects of our operations, from production and supply chain management to customer service and quality control.

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of daily operations, including production, inventory management, order fulfillment, and logistics.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Lead and motivate a diverse team of employees, including production staff, warehouse personnel, and administrative staff..
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and food safety standards throughout the production and distribution process.
• Analyze operational data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to continuously improve operational efficiency and effectiveness.
  

To be considered for this role, you will have

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with employees, customers, and suppliers.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve operational excellence.
• Solid understanding of production processes, supply chain management, and inventory control principles.
• Proficiency in using software and technology solutions for operations management and data analysis.

Desired candidate profile

1. Process Management and Improvement

• Workflow Optimization: Identifying inefficiencies in current operational processes and implementing strategies to improve workflow. This includes minimizing bottlenecks, reducing waste, and improving productivity across departments.
• Process Design: Developing and refining processes to enhance operational efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction. This includes creating standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and ensuring that processes are followed consistently.
• Continuous Improvement: Using methods like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen to continuously improve operational processes, reduce costs, and increase service delivery speed and quality.
• Quality Control: Ensuring products or services meet a consistent level of quality by implementing quality assurance measures and tracking performance metrics.

2. Team Leadership and Staff Management

• Team Leadership: Managing teams of employees and ensuring they are well-trained, motivated, and working effectively towards operational goals.
• Training and Development: Providing ongoing training and development opportunities for team members to enhance skills and ensure compliance with industry regulations or company standards.
• Performance Management: Setting performance targets, conducting regular performance reviews, and providing feedback to help employees meet organizational goals.
• Conflict Resolution: Addressing conflicts within teams or between departments and implementing solutions to maintain a harmonious work environment.
• Resource Allocation: Ensuring that staff are deployed efficiently and that resources are utilized optimally to achieve operational goals.

3. Budget and Financial Management

• Budget Creation and Management: Developing and managing the department or company's budget, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to achieve operational targets while controlling costs.
• Cost Control: Identifying areas where costs can be reduced without sacrificing quality or customer service. This includes managing overhead costs, supply chain expenses, and labor costs.
• Financial Reporting: Tracking and analyzing operational costs, profitability, and other key financial indicators to report to senior management and make adjustments as needed.

4. Supply Chain and Logistics Management

• Inventory Management: Overseeing inventory levels, ensuring that products or materials are available as needed without overstocking, which can lead to waste and unnecessary costs.
• Vendor Management: Negotiating with and managing relationships with suppliers and service providers to ensure quality products, timely delivery, and competitive pricing.
• Logistics Coordination: Managing the flow of goods, services, or information from suppliers to customers. This includes overseeing transportation, warehousing, and distribution to meet customer demand.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential risks in the supply chain and developing contingency plans to address disruptions in production or delivery.

5. Customer Service and Satisfaction

• Customer Experience: Ensuring that customer needs are met and that the service or product delivered aligns with customer expectations, which in turn drives customer satisfaction and retention.
• Problem Resolution: Handling customer complaints or operational issues that may arise during production, shipment, or service delivery.
• Service Quality Standards: Setting and enforcing service quality standards to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and to meet or exceed customer expectations.
• Feedback and Improvement: Gathering and analyzing customer feedback to continuously improve products, services, and operational processes.