Senior Production Manager, Kinder Bueno

Ferrero•Bloomington, IL

1d•$135,453 - $180,604

About The Position

The Senior Production Manager, Kinder Bueno leads, directs, and oversees day-to-day production operations for Kinder Bueno. The role is accountable for achieving 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 develops solutions to improve product quality, productivity, and manufacturing performance. The position is a key point of reference for product development, process optimization, and innovation. It works with internal teams to manage resources and align production activity with company objectives, while fostering accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. The role upholds company policies, procedures, and operating standards, with particular emphasis on food safety, quality assurance, environmental responsibility, and health and safety. The Senior Production Manager reports to the Plant Manager and manages and develops Production Supervisors and their teams. The role collaborates with Planning, R&D, supply chain, Quality and Food Safety, Maintenance, and other partners on production planning, manufacturing improvements, new capabilities, maintenance, and environmental performance. The position also contributes to budget and resource management and maintains constructive relationships with labor unions. A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, or a related field is required, along with at least 10 years of progressive manufacturing or production management experience. Experience in chocolate or confectionery manufacturing or another industrial production environment is highly preferred. The stated base compensation range is $135,453–$180,604; actual compensation depends on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Ferrero offers health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

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.
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.
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 is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee daily production activities to meet production schedules, operational targets, and delivery commitments.
Ensure finished products meet established quality standards, specifications, and production timelines.
Manage, support, and develop Production Supervisors, providing direction, guidance, and accountability for 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 to identify and eliminate technical, technological, and operational challenges across production lines.
Identify opportunities to optimize manufacturing processes, improve equipment performance, reduce waste, and maximize efficiency.
Coordinate implementation of projects involving production lines, product formats, processes, and technology improvements within the assigned area.
Collaborate with R&D, supply chain, Quality and Food Safety, and other cross-functional teams on product development, process innovation, and new manufacturing capabilities.
Contribute to developing, managing, and monitoring budgets covering maintenance, capital investments, production costs, general expenses, and energy consumption.
Establish maintenance priorities and coordinate interventions with the RDM and Maintenance Manager.
Contribute to developing, reviewing, and improving 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 as clear goals and expectations for the management team.
Provide leadership, coaching, and development to Production Supervisors and their teams.
Conduct performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and establish development opportunities for individuals and teams.
Maintain constructive working relationships with labor unions and guide and support UGP management on effective labor relations practices.
Ensure production activities comply with company policies, procedures, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Promote food safety, product quality, and health and safety throughout the production organization.
Partner with the ISEE Manager to develop and implement initiatives that improve environmental performance and sustainability.
Ensure employees understand and follow applicable regulatory requirements, company standards, and safe operating practices.