Production Leader, Kinder Bueno

Ferrero•Bloomington, IL

1d•$135,453 - $180,604

About The Position

The Production Leader, Kinder Bueno reports to the Plant Manager and leads, directs, and oversees day-to-day production operations for Kinder Bueno. The role is accountable for meeting operational objectives, production targets, delivery commitments, and quality standards safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. It provides strategic and operational leadership to the production team, drives continuous improvement and operational excellence, and supports innovative solutions that improve product quality, productivity, and manufacturing performance. The Production Leader is a key point of reference for product development, process optimization, and innovation. The role works across teams and manages resources to align production with company objectives while fostering accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. It upholds company policies, procedures, and operational standards, with particular emphasis on food safety, quality assurance, environmental responsibility, and health and safety.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field.
At least 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing or production management.
Demonstrated experience overseeing production operations, managing teams, and achieving operational and financial performance objectives.
Strong understanding of raw materials, manufacturing processes, production technologies, quality control, cost management, and production optimization.
Solid knowledge of business and management principles, including strategic planning, budgeting, resource allocation, workforce planning, leadership, and operational coordination.
Knowledge of employee relations, labor relations, collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), personnel development, and conflict resolution.
Proven ability to identify improvement opportunities, solve complex operational challenges, and implement sustainable solutions.
Working knowledge of production equipment, machinery, and fundamental operating principles within the assigned production area.

Nice To Haves

Experience in chocolate or confectionery manufacturing or an industrial production environment.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee daily production activities to meet production schedules, operational targets, and delivery commitments.
Ensure finished products meet established quality standards and specifications and are produced within required timelines.
Manage, support, and develop Production Supervisors, providing direction, guidance, and accountability for executing production plans.
Work with the Planning Department and Production Supervisors to develop, coordinate, and execute weekly production schedules.
Monitor production performance, identify operational challenges, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency, productivity, and cost effectiveness.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives that identify and eliminate technical, technological, and operational challenges across production lines.
Identify opportunities to optimize manufacturing processes, improve equipment performance, reduce waste, and maximize operational efficiency.
Coordinate projects involving production lines, product formats, processes, and technological improvements within the assigned area.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, supply chain, quality, and food safety, to support product development, process innovation, and new manufacturing capabilities.
Contribute to the development, management, and monitoring of budgets for maintenance, capital investments, production costs, general expenses, and energy consumption.
Establish maintenance priorities and coordinate interventions with the RDM and Maintenance Manager.
Contribute to the development, review, and continuous improvement of preventive maintenance plans to maximize equipment reliability and operational performance.
Allocate resources effectively to support production objectives while maintaining cost controls and operational efficiency.
Translate and communicate company objectives into clear goals and expectations for the management team.
Coach and develop Production Supervisors and their teams; conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and establish development opportunities.
Maintain constructive relationships with labor unions and guide and support UGP management on effective labor relations practices.
Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) across production activities.
Promote food safety, product quality, and health and safety throughout the production organization.
Partner with the ISEE Manager on initiatives to improve environmental performance and sustainability.
Ensure employees understand and follow applicable regulatory requirements, company standards, and safe operating practices.