General Manager, Newport News

High Liner Foods•Newport News, VA

13h•$131,000 - $181,000

About The Position

The General Manager leads and manages High Liner Foods’ Newport News manufacturing facility, reporting to the Sr. Director, Operations. The role is responsible for employee safety, staffing levels, employee engagement, and timely production of high-quality products. Accountabilities include environmental compliance, site food safety, facility sanitation, Quality Assurance, equipment and building maintenance, and continuous improvement projects. The General Manager leads five direct reports and oversees facility planning, production performance, cost, quality, safety, and workforce planning. The role works with direct-report managers and supervisors to address production issues, meet operating targets, identify deficiencies, and implement corrective actions. It also coordinates with commercial teams, customers, and government agencies. The typical hiring salary range is $131,000–$181,000. Employees may be eligible for annual short-term and long-term incentive programs, subject to program eligibility requirements.

Requirements

At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience, preferably in food production or manufacturing.
Post-secondary education or equivalent related experience.
Prioritize employee safety and maintain an unwavering focus on food safety.
Well-developed knowledge of facility and equipment maintenance, sanitation, and quality assurance.
Passion for the business and brand, with drive and initiative.
Strong analytical ability and skill in using data analysis tools to make evidence-based decisions.
Ability to motivate employees at all levels to meet short- and long-term goals.
Exceptional integrity and an inclusive, supportive leadership style.
Superior communication skills, with transparency and accountability in messaging.
Focus on continuous improvement and knowledge and application of LEAN manufacturing principles.
Strong collaboration skills and appreciation of cross-functional collaboration.
Flexibility to pivot, problem-solve, and realign as needed.
Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including walking, sitting, talking, listening, reaching, handling or operating objects, tools, or controls, and occasional motor vehicle operation for off-site meetings.
Sufficient visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle, digital camera, and other office and position equipment; close vision and ability to adjust focus.
Ability to hear and speak clearly to communicate with clients, coworkers, employees, and vendors.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of five direct reports in operating the manufacturing facility, focusing on safety, workforce planning, production KPIs, and employee engagement.
Plan facility changes, upgrades, equipment layouts, work methods, staffing, and resource allocation cost-effectively.
Monitor and maintain standards for cost, quality, safety, and facility appearance.
Partner with direct-report managers and supervisors to plan and monitor manufacturing performance.
Resolve daily production issues to meet volume, yield, quality, material usage, labor, scheduling, and cost targets.
Identify deficiencies, set priorities, and guide teams in implementing timely corrective actions.
Liaise with the commercial team, customers, and federal and local agencies.
Review downtime, labor, material usage, and other production reports; identify improvement opportunities and take action with the team.
Analyze variances and exceptions to improve resource allocation, cost efficiency, and yield.
Oversee environmental compliance, site food safety, facility sanitation, Quality Assurance, equipment and building maintenance, and continuous improvement projects.
Ensure employee safety and support employee engagement.