Executive Director of Technical Operations - Leahy-IFP

Job Purpose/Objective:

The Executive Director of Technical Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all technical operations within the organization ensuring that plant safety is the highest priority and seamless execution of manufacturing operations, equipment maintenance, process innovation, engineering, and technical compliance. This role will develop systems and resource infrastructures to ensure seamless execution of technical functions, driving innovation, operational excellence, continuous improvement and compliance while supporting the company’s manufacturing and growth objectives. The Executive Director will establish and lead strategies to optimize equipment effectiveness, operations, process improvement, and ensure the highest standards of quality and efficiency in a fast-paced, multi-line production environment. The position is part of Leahy-IFP team out of Glenview but will be based out of the New Lenox, IL plant with frequent visits to the Reno, Nevada plant and Glenview office.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a forward-thinking technical operations strategy aligned with the company’s goals for growth, quality, and innovation.
• Drive the adoption of advanced technologies, focusing on aseptic manufacturing and operational excellence.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to integrate technical operations into broader business strategies.
• Drive innovation in technical processes to enhance productivity, product quality, and operational reliability.

Engineering and Multi-Line Operations

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of all manufacturing equipment, facilities, and utility systems.
• Ensure manufacturing systems are optimized to handle diverse product lines efficiently, preventive maintenance programs are developed and executed to minimize downtime and improve equipment reliability.
• Lead technical evaluations and commissioning of new equipment, ensuring scalability and adaptability.

Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence

• Champion lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve productivity.
• Establish and implement operational excellence programs to drive standardization and consistency across all technical processes.
• Use data analytics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor, evaluate, and enhance operational performance.

Aseptic Technology and Process Optimization

• Establish and drive technical efforts to maintain and improve aseptic processing systems, ensuring compliance with stringent quality and safety standards.
• Collaborate with R&D and quality assurance teams to address challenges in product formulation, filling, and packaging within an aseptic environment.
• Stay ahead of industry trends in aseptic & thermal processing technology to enhance operational capabilities.
• Collaborate with R&D and quality assurance teams to address challenges in product formulation, filling, and packaging within an aseptic environment.

Compliance and Quality

• Ensure all technical processes meet or exceed regulatory, safety, and quality standards, including those specific to aseptic production.
• Partner with quality assurance teams to resolve technical issues affecting product consistency, safety, or compliance.
• Maintain systems and protocols for environmental and sustainability compliance.

Capital Projects and Budget Management

• Create and oversee capital improvement projects, including facility expansions, equipment upgrades, and new line installations.
• Manage budgets for technical operations, focusing on cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or efficiency.
• Manage, evaluate and negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, OEMS, and contractors for technical projects.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with manufacturing, R&D, supply chain, and quality teams to address technical challenges and support new product development.
• Act as a key advisor for strategic initiatives, such as the launch of new product lines and expansion into new markets.
• Develop and manage partnerships with external stakeholders to ensure robust technical support and innovation.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in food manufacturing operations or engineering roles, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership position within the beverage or food manufacturing industry.
• Extensive knowledge in thermal food processing in multi-line operations, and continuous improvement practices. Aseptic beverage or dairy experience preferred.
• Proven track record of creating and implementing operational excellence programs and leading complex capital projects.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements for food and beverage manufacturing, including FDA, GMP, and OSHA.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, maintenance management tools, and data analytics software.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking with a focus on execution and results.
• Expertise in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Leadership and team-building skills to inspire high-performing technical teams.
• Exceptional project management and organizational capabilities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.