Production Operations Manager - Continuous Improvement Manager at See's Candies

Work is Sweet!

'Quality without Compromise' is not just a motto at See's Candies. It is the most important ingredient in our recipe for success. See's Candies has been in business since 1921 and maintains a reputation for producing the highest quality candy and providing superior customer service.
See's is a leader in the confectionary industry with over 250 retail shops across the USA. We are seeking friendly, enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about providing great customer service.

Job Description Summary:

This position is responsible for management of the candy making processes from raw materials to finished goods in accordance with See’s established standards of quality, productivity, cost (labor and material variance) and safety. This manager is directly responsible for the management of personnel, equipment, raw materials, enterprise resource planning (ERP) system accuracy, and execution of the production schedule to assure the adequate supply of product to the Packing Department and all Selling Divisions. This position requires managing 24-hour operations during peak seasons.

The pay range for this position is expected to be $105k-$115k annually; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Job Description:

1.    Responsible for all activities of the candy making processes in plant. Manages the quality, cost, productivity, planning and implementing the production schedule. 
2.    Responsible for all the ERP (JRG / ROSS) transactions including but not limited to scheduling for products, supplies and ingredients, inventory levels and production reports.  Ensures supply of product to Packing Departments and sales channels across the company.
3.    Ensures correct staffing levels for the attainment of department goals in production, productivity, budget, scrap and rejects. Coordinates hiring and layoff with the Human Resources department.  Ensures compliance with state labor regulations and sets shift schedules of all personnel for safe and efficient operation of the department. 
4.    Direct supervision of all production staff including training, development and performance management of all supervisory and hourly employees.  Develops, enforces and updates Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and training programs for skilled (bid) positions. Manages in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement and See’s policies.
5.    Responsible for compliance with See’s Safety, Good Manufacturing Practices, Food Safety, and Production policies. Monitors formula and procedure adherence. Oversees operational practice to prevent food contamination. Provides technical guidance during plant operations including shutdown and startup to minimize production losses.
6.    Monitors and ensures compliance with environmental regulation, including federal, state and local ordinances; maintains all necessary documentation.
7.    Responsible for the safety of all plant associates, makes sure all the required safety training is completed and enforces the existing policies and procedures. Actively participates and provides leadership in safety meetings.
8.    Sets appropriate individual and departmental goals, tracks productivity and labor budget for the department and monitors waste controls and shrinkage. Maintains visible presence on plant floor to ensure quality of product, compliance with safety practices, machine operations, Good Manufacturing Practices, and waste management.
9.    Supports implementation of new methods, procedures and systems to improve quality and food safety. Responsible for leading Food Safety and Quality efforts with the designated Safe Quality Food (SQF) Practitioner.
10.    Responsible for execution and adherence to pre-requisite programs as well as food security/defense program.
11.    In the absence of the Senior Production Manager, the Production Manager will assume plant responsibility under the leadership and guidance of Plant Manager.
12.    Performs special continuous improvement projects as assigned by management. 
13.    Responsible for identifying opportunities to enhance technology and innovation that will improve departmental effectiveness.
14.    Responsible for supporting cross functional teams with new product development.  Work closely with R&D to support new product innovation.
15.    Responsible for the team culture and coming up with recognition programs in efforts to highlight high performance workers.
16.    Builds people capabilities through coaching and mentoring of direct reports.  Provides performance evaluations for their team.
17.    All See’s staff must be committed to the company’s core principles and workplace values, including diversity and inclusion.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
1.    Minimum five years of management experience in a confectionery or quality food-manufacturing environment, including inventory control, cost analysis, quality assurance, and control of process and product flow from raw material to finished goods.
2.    Excellent management and oral and written communication skills. Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
3.    Proven ability to provide leadership, motivation, and supervision to employees at all levels.
4.    Bachelor degree in business, biological sciences, or food-related discipline or equivalent training in food and management disciplines desired.
5.    Proficiency in Word and Excel. Experience with ERP or production scheduling software systems desired.
6.    Proven ability to learn new technologies quickly and manage change efficiently, proactively and in a positive manner. 

The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, in addition to a full range of generous medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

See's is an EOE
See’s will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable local, state or federal law (including San Francisco Ordinance #131192 and Los Angeles Municipal Code 189.00).