Vice President of Operations

Kagome USA•Osceola, AR

43d

About The Position

Lead all operational activities at KFI to ensure reliable customer fulfillment, strong operational discipline, and a culture grounded in safety, quality, and continuous improvement. This role oversees production, maintenance, engineering, scheduling, materials management, warehouse, purchasing/MRP, quality, and safety. Responsible for developing and maintaining a high-performing leadership team while ensuring compliance with all regulatory, food safety, and corporate requirements. Support and ensure compliance with all programs, policies, and procedures outlined in the Food Safety and Quality Management System. Fulfill assigned food safety and regulatory responsibilities in accordance with the SQF Food Safety Code, including promptly reporting any concerns to initiate corrective action. Actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S and EOS.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required, preferably in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, Manufacturing/Process Management, or a related field.
Minimum 10 years of senior leadership experience overseeing production, plant operations, or multi-site manufacturing environments, including success managing large teams, complex operations, and challenging performance, quality, safety, or efficiency conditions.
Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills in formal and informal settings.
Must be able to direct and manage different levels of personnel in a cooperative and cohesive team.
Ability to motivate staff and communicate information.
Must be able to communicate effectively with co-workers and management team.
Reliability and acceptable attendance is required.
Must consistently fulfill job responsibilities, knowing how to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
Build a culture employee and/or co-workers want to be a part of.
Be helpful to others and work as a team toward company goals.
Participate in an exceptional onboarding experience for new hires and ensure they have the necessary tools to succeed in their roles by welcoming and assisting them.
Build employee engagement, recognize, and reward employees, provide avenues for professional development, and manage to retain.

Nice To Haves

A master's degree (MBA or related) is strongly preferred but not required.
Experience leading transformational initiatives, implementing systems (e.g., ERP), and driving operational excellence is strongly preferred.