Unit Operations Leader

IFF•Memphis, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Unit Operations Leader role is based in Memphis, Tennessee. This role will lead daily manufacturing operations for assigned production unit(s), ensuring alignment with safety, quality, cost, and production volume targets. The leader will develop and implement strategies to improve operational performance, including cost efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement outcomes. This position drives a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety, health, environmental, and Process Safety Management standards. The role applies Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Root Cause Failure Analysis methodologies to identify trends, solve problems, and eliminate process inefficiencies. The Unit Operations Leader partners with site leadership and supply chain teams to coordinate production schedules and align with customer demand. This role also manages operating budgets, including planning, tracking, and reporting of fixed and variable costs. Additionally, the leader will manage performance management processes, including goal setting, performance evaluation, coaching, and development of team members. The position establishes clear priorities, reinforces accountability, and maintains operational discipline across the production unit. Finally, it ensures compliance with all food safety and quality standards, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point, Good Manufacturing Practices, sanitation, and pest control programs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, or related technical discipline) or equivalent experience
Approximately eight or more years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
Experience managing budgets and understanding fixed and variable cost structures
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment utilization, and operational systems
Demonstrated experience leading safety programs, audits, and promoting safe work behaviors
Experience with Process Safety Management and continuous improvement practices
Experience using Root Cause Failure Analysis or similar structured problem-solving methodologies
Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across cross-functional teams

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
Experience leading Lean Manufacturing initiatives at scale
Proven success in driving culture transformation focused on safety, engagement, and accountability

Responsibilities

Lead daily manufacturing operations for assigned production unit(s), ensuring alignment with safety, quality, cost, and production volume targets
Develop and implement strategies to improve operational performance, including cost efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement outcomes
Drive a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with safety, health, environmental, and Process Safety Management standards
Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Root Cause Failure Analysis methodologies to identify trends, solve problems, and eliminate process inefficiencies
Partner with site leadership and supply chain teams to coordinate production schedules and align with customer demand
Manage operating budgets, including planning, tracking, and reporting of fixed and variable costs
Lead performance management processes, including goal setting, performance evaluation, coaching, and development of team members
Establish clear priorities, reinforce accountability, and maintain operational discipline across the production unit
Ensure compliance with all food safety and quality standards, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point, Good Manufacturing Practices, sanitation, and pest control programs