Operations Manager

PeopleSuite Talent Solutions; Lima (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

PeopleSuite Talent Solutions is seeking an Operations Manager in Lima, Ohio, to oversee the daily manufacturing operations. The role focuses on achieving production goals while ensuring the safety and quality of food products.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a solid background in food manufacturing, and experience with Lean methodologies. Responsibilities include leading teams, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with GMPs and safety standards. Join us to foster a culture of excellence in operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of GMPs and food safety regulations.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing methodologies preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for all plant production operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage departmental budgets and monitor operational expenses.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Team Development

Financial Acumen

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management or related field

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating daily manufacturing operations to ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of food products. This role drives operational performance through effective leadership, continuous improvement initiatives, employee development, and cross-functional collaboration. The Operations Manager plays a critical role in achieving production goals, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture centered on safety, quality, accountability, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for all plant production operations to ensure operational goals, customer expectations, and quality standards are consistently achieved.
• Champion workplace safety by enforcing safety programs, policies, Lockout/Tagout procedures, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste, and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Lead, coach, and develop production supervisors and frontline employees to build a high-performing and engaged workforce.
• Monitor production processes, identify operational bottlenecks, and implement effective solutions to improve efficiency and performance.
• Develop and manage production schedules while coordinating with maintenance teams to minimize downtime and maximize equipment reliability.
• Manage departmental budgets and monitor operational expenses to support financial objectives.
• Ensure compliance with GMPs, food safety programs, sanitation standards, and all company policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular production floor audits and line reviews to ensure operational standards and standard work practices are maintained.
• Support employee performance management, including coaching, training, evaluations, corrective actions, and development planning.
• Promote a collaborative team environment that supports safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of operational documentation and reporting requirements.
• Communicate effectively with plant leadership and cross-functional teams regarding production performance, staffing, and operational priorities.
• Support and lead plant audit readiness for corporate, customer, and regulatory inspections.
• Assume leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Plant Manager as needed.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing or production operations required.
• Strong understanding of food manufacturing processes, GMPs, food safety, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies preferred.
• Experience leading teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Core Competencies

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Proven ability to drive operational performance and achieve production goals.
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Effective organizational and time‑management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and operational expenses.
• Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
• Results‑oriented mindset with a focus on safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and foster a positive team culture.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work environment includes both office and manufacturing settings.
• Regular exposure to cold, wet, humid, and loud production environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including periodic off‑shift support as needed.