Manager, Production

Dairy Farmers of America•Elkland Township, MI

32d

About The Position

This role is responsible for managing production activities to ensure efficient and profitable operations. The Manager, Production will provide work direction and supervision to production supervisors and employees, adhering to standard work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. This position oversees the daily management of various departments, ensuring all company, regulatory, safety, and quality requirements are met. The role also involves assisting in the formulation of plant objectives, policies, and plans, and resolving issues in a timely manner. Additionally, the Manager, Production directs personnel activities such as recruitment, hiring, performance evaluations, and salary adjustments using independent judgment within established human resources policies.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
5 to 8 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food and/or beverage manufacturing
Supervisory or management experience
Solid knowledge of manufacturing process flow and importance to process
Solid knowledge of continuous improvement models
Skill in leadership and coaching; knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management
Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
Skill in critical thinking, analysis, mathematical calculations, and statistical evaluations
Able to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamwork
Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
Able to think and use independent judgment in planning and organizing multiple tasks and information
Able to demonstrate strong initiative and follow through on day-to-day responsibilities
Able to take appropriate steps to find solutions to problems
Able to present options and ideas to current processes or procedures
Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
Able to communicate with various levels of personnel to ensure customers’ needs and requirements are met
Able to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requests
Able to interpret and apply company policies
Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
Must be able to read, write and speak English

Nice To Haves

Undergraduate degree in related curriculum preferred
Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment

Responsibilities

Manage daily operational activities of supervisors and production staff to ensure customer orders are received, scheduled, and produced at the lowest possible cost to meet the customer’s requirements while maintaining established safety and quality standards.
Analyze operations and key metrics to ensure that the facility maintains high quality and safety standards; proactively look for ways to increase operational efficiency and contain costs.
Ensure that Standard Operating Procedures are developed and maintained for all operational activities.
Report deficiencies to plant leadership; identify and resolve operational issues.
Assist in development and implementation of safety programs.
Ensure that all regulations and company policies are understood and followed by supervisors and production employees; advise them of correct interpretation when necessary.
Conduct meetings with department management to communicate essential policies, plans, or problems affecting operations, employee relations, and general company information.
Maintain preparation for and participate in plant inspections by authorized agencies utilizing appropriate staff.
Monitor inventory levels for supplies and equipment and initiate or approve purchases as appropriate.
Prepare reports and records for management review.
Manage assigned employees, including recruitment, supervision, scheduling, development, evaluation, and performance management. Understand and effectively apply work rules, union contract provisions (if applicable), and employment policies. Administer discipline consistently and fairly. Work with Human Resources and plant management to resolve employee grievances.
Actively communicate with employees through shift meetings and informal methods. Maintain and promote positive employee relations in work environment.
Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all company, state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues.
Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all company regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.