Plant Manager

**THE COMPANY**

Our client has evolved into one of North America’s largest vertically integrated grower, processor, and distributor of fresh produce. They remain family-owned and internationally recognized. They offer comprehensive solutions spanning from Grower operations, procurement, packing, fresh-cut processing, and research & development.

**THE POSITION**

We have been retained to search for a strategic and hands-on Plant Manager for the Fresh Cut Processing Plant in Hermosillo, Sonora MX. Reporting directly to the Mexico General Manager, the Plant Manager will play a pivotal role in leading all aspects of plant operations, including training personnel, leading purchasing, promoting retention and creating cultural stability. The role will also have full P&L responsibility and oversee customer fulfillment needs for both USA and Mexico clients.

**Direct Reports include**:

- Operations/Manufacturing
- Purchasing
- Accounting
- Safety
- Human Resources
- Logistics

**Main Responsibilities**:
**Operational Leadership**:

- Collaborate with Sales and Leadership teams to establish production and quality control standards.
- Plan and direct production activities of employees, establishing production priorities for produce in keeping with effective operations and cost factors.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency.
- Implement best practices and innovative technologies to drive operational excellence and improve product quality.

**Quality Control and Compliance**:

- Review and analyze production, quality control, maintenance, and operational reports to determine causes of nonconformity with product specifications and operating or production problems.
- Confer with foreman to coordinate activities for optimum results of manpower and product.
- Responsible for control of gassing and coloring of product to meet optimum demands of sales, including receiving and nightly inventory.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including food safety, environmental regulations, and labor laws.
- Develop and maintain systems and procedures to meet regulatory standards and ensure a safe and compliant work environment.

**Strategic Planning and Coordination**:

- Obtain data from sales regarding types, quantities, specifications, and delivery dates of produce.
- Revise production schedules and priorities in conjunction with Sales and operations as a result of equipment failure or operating problems.
- Consult with maintenance personnel related to modification of machines and equipment to improve production and quality of products.

**Team Management and Collaboration**:

- Coordinate production activities with procurement, maintenance, and quality control activities to obtain optimum production and utilization of human resources, machines, and equipment.
- Maintain harmony among workers and resolve grievances.
- Confer with foremen to coordinate activities for optimal manpower and product outcomes.

**Safety Leadership**:

- Champion a culture of safety throughout the organization, promoting awareness and adherence to safety protocols and procedures.
- Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to identify and mitigate potential hazards, ensuring the health and well-being of employees.

**Inventory Management**:

- Compile and maintain inventory, monitor production data, and shrink.
- Responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records and monitoring production data to minimize shrinkage and ensure efficient inventory management.

**Budget Management**:

- Develop and manage the departmental budget, including forecasting, monitoring expenses, and identifying opportunities for cost savings.
- Implement cost-control measures to optimize resource allocation and achieve financial targets.

**Customer Focus**:

- Collaborate with Sales and Customer Service teams to understand customer requirements and ensure product quality meets or exceeds customer expectations.
- Address customer feedback and inquiries promptly, striving to enhance customer satisfaction and maintain strong relationships.

**THE CANDIDATE**

**Leadership**:

- Strong leadership skills with a track record of driving performance, managing change, and building high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, focusing on innovation and continuous improvement.

**Operational Knowledge**:

- Minimum 5-10 years of proven experience in a similar role within the food processing industry, preferably in plant management.
- In-depth understanding of food processing operations, quality control standards, and regulatory requirements, including familiarity with food safety regulations such as HACCP and GMP.
- Familiarity with maintenance management systems and practices to ensure optimal equipment perform