Technical Director of Operations, Supply Chain

$140,000 - $160,000/Yr

The Vita Coco - New York City, NY

Full-time - Senior

New York City, NY

Food Manufacturing

About the position

The Vita Coco Company is seeking an experienced Technical Director to lead our technical operations in the Americas. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading technical operations, driving continuous improvements and quality standards while supporting our business development initiatives across our supplier network and co-manufacturing partners. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background and excellent leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct the team's efforts to optimize Quality, Productivity, and Costs through technical support
• Supervise/Assist in root cause analysis, troubleshooting, and resolution of manufacturing-related issues
• Lead the technical aspects of execution of new package launches and product commercialization
• Involvement on defining technical audits plans of co-manufacturing facilities and coordinate follow-up actions
• Collaborate with QA Team to investigate and resolve product quality issues
• Define and lead a technical consultancy service team across co-manufacturer network
• Direct efforts to streamline operations and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Assess network capacities and capabilities to support supply chain planning
• Define and lead cost savings and optimization initiatives in technical and Supply Chain operations
• Collaborate with Quality executives to ensure product reliability and safety
• Develop and reinforce quality standards
• Maintain relationships with manufacturing partners to strengthen operations
• Oversee/Lead projects involving new plant installations and continuous improvement initiatives
• Manage overall project timelines to ensure on-time delivery
• Guide the team in providing technical support to co-manufacturing partners during project phases and daily operations
• Provide technical guide on the executing trials for new process development with co-manufacturing partners
• Drive product improvements and new product formulations, leveraging team expertise and the Innovation team needs
• Support and oversee technical feasibility and manufacturing audits for potential new partners and suppliers
• Recruit, train, and mentor technical staff
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning
• Manage performance and development of the technical team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Food Sciences, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in technical operations and project management
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Experience working with co-manufacturing partners and managing complex projects
• Understanding of sustainability principles and life cycle assessment
• Ability to travel as required
• Proficiency in Portuguese is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $140,000-$160,000 based on experience and location
• Commitment to equal employment opportunities and a harassment-free work environment