Production Manager

Relate Search; Rochester, Austin (MN, MN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Relate Search is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead the full manufacturing value stream in a national Food & Beverage organization. Reporting to the Plant Manager, you will drive operational excellence, safety, quality, and delivery through Lean initiatives and hands‑on leadership.

The role requires 5+ years in production/operations leadership within F&B, expertise in Lean/Six Sigma, and strong budget management skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Five or more years of progressive Production or Operations leadership experience in Food & Beverage Manufacturing.
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement initiatives with measurable results.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end Manufacturing processes, production planning, equipment performance, food safety, and quality standards.
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, manage production budgets, and drive sustainable improvements in high-volume environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end production operations across the full Manufacturing value stream, ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and delivery objectives are achieved
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on optimizing processes, reducing waste, improving OEE, and increasing productivity
• Develop, coach, and mentor Production leadership teams while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and Operational Excellence
• Partner with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to improve equipment reliability, eliminate production constraints, and optimize operational performance
• Develop and execute production strategies focused on capacity utilization, labor efficiency, cost reduction, and long-term operational improvement

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Continuous Improvement

Production Leadership

Budget Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or related field

Job description

Relate Search has partnered with a growing national Food & Beverage manufacturer to identify an experienced Production Manager to join its leadership team. Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, this high-impact role will oversee the full Manufacturing value stream, driving Operational Excellence and overall production performance. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in Food & Beverage Manufacturing, a strategic and hands-on leadership approach, and proven success implementing Lean Manufacturing principles to improve efficiency, quality, and profitability. This is an outstanding opportunity to make a significant impact while positioning yourself for continued career advancement within a large, national organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end production operations across the full Manufacturing value stream, ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and delivery objectives are achieved
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on optimizing processes, reducing waste, improving OEE, and increasing productivity
• Develop, coach, and mentor Production leadership teams while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and Operational Excellence
• Partner with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain to improve equipment reliability, eliminate production constraints, and optimize operational performance
• Develop and execute production strategies focused on capacity utilization, labor efficiency, cost reduction, and long-term operational improvement

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field preferred
• Five or more years of progressive Production or Operations leadership experience within Food & Beverage Manufacturing
• Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement initiatives with measurable operational results
• Strong understanding of end-to-end Manufacturing processes, production planning, equipment performance, food safety, and quality standards
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, manage production budgets, and drive sustainable improvements within high-volume Manufacturing environments

This company offers a competitive compensation package, tremendous opportunities for career advancement, and the ability to make a significant impact within a growing national Food & Beverage organization.

About Relate Search

Relate Search is a Woman, Minority, and LGBTQIA+ owned executive and professional search firm dedicated to connecting top talent with meaningful opportunity. With deep expertise across Supply Chain & Operations, Technology, Sales & Marketing, Human Resources, and Accounting & Finance, we deliver customized, people-first recruiting solutions that drive lasting impact.

Equal Opportunity & Diversity Statement

Relate Search is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to building inclusive teams where everyone belongs. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.