Director of Operations

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Operations at Mama Lola's plays a pivotal role in enhancing operational strategies and driving effectiveness across the organization. It is critical that this position has advanced knowledge in Mechanical Engineering to ensure long term goals are achieved.  This leadership position collaborates closely with the President and various departments to increase productivity, improve efficiencies, reduce waste, and ensure adherence to quality and compliance standards. The Director of Operations is a problem-solver, focused on offering solutions, setting standards, and quantifying financial impact. The role combines strong leadership with technical expertise to maintain a smooth, cost-effective, and safe production process.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Engineering Solutions: Talk is cheap, but downtime is expensive!  This position must have advanced knowledge of Mechanical Engineering, process improvements and ultimately engineering solutions.  

2.     Leadership & Oversight: Lead and supervise the production, maintenance, and sanitation departments to maintain efficient and safe processes, ensuring adherence to company goals and KPIs.

3.     Process Improvement: Partner with the President to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) such as efficiency, waste reduction, downtime, and labor costs. Regularly review KPI data and drive process improvements to optimize production efficiency and minimize material consumption.

4.     Team Supervision & Development: Directly supervise the Production Scheduler, Production Supervisor, and production leads to ensure operational standards are met. Provide ongoing training, coaching, and development opportunities for production operators and maintenance personnel.

5.     Preventive Maintenance Program: Direct Maintenance Dept to design and implement a Preventative Maintenance Program

6.     Production Floor Engagement: Spend a minimum of four hours per day on the production floor, ensuring the effective application of technical knowledge, leading by example, and working hands-on with the team to solve operational issues.

7.     Collaboration Across Departments: Collaborate with the Business Data Analyst and Quality Assurance Manager to use data insights to improve processes, maintain product quality, and enhance overall operational performance.

8.     Compliance & Safety: Support and maintain compliance with SQF inspection standards, organic certifications, Kosher certification, and food safety regulations such as FDA guidelines.

9.     Documentation & Reporting: Develop, maintain, and review production work instructions, SOPs, safety protocols, and company policies. Ensure all production-related documentation is up to date and accessible.

10.  Cost Control & Financial Impact: Analyze production and labor costs to ensure alignment with financial targets. Proactively manage costs related to labor, materials, and maintenance.

11.  Additional Duties: Perform other duties as assigned to meet the evolving needs of the company and ensure operational success.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, or a related field with a focus on Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience: 5-7 years of experience in operations management within the food manufacturing industry, with a preference for experience in tortilla or similar food production environments.
• Leadership: Proven track record of leading production, maintenance, and operations teams effectively, demonstrating strong leadership and team development skills.
• Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of food safety regulations, including FDA requirements, SQF standards, and other relevant food certifications.
• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of financial and budgeting principles, including profit and loss management, cost control, and budgeting.
• Communication Skills: Bilingual in English and Spanish required for clear communication across teams.
• Flexibility: Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as required to meet production demands.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, including cold storage and hot production environments.
• Capability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Frequent use of hands to handle tools, objects, or controls.
• Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as necessary.
• Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

BENEFITS

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Supplemental benefit options
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Referral Program