What are the responsibilities and job description for the Leadership Development Rotational Program position at MSI Express?
Location: Chicago Metropolitan Area (Plants & Corporate Office)
Reports to: Assigned Departmental Manager & Program Sponsor
Department: Rotational – Operations, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, Quality, HR
ROLE PURPOSE / POSITION SUMMARY
The MSI Express Leadership Rotational Program is a two-year developmental program designed to provide hands-on experience in 3-4 different departments within MSI Express. Participants will rotate across Operations, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, Sales, Quality, or Human Resources, gaining cross-functional exposure to different facets of food manufacturing and corporate operations.
Each participant will be assigned a sponsor at the director level or above, who will serve as a mentor and guide throughout the program. The program aims to develop future leaders by providing structured learning experiences, real-world projects, and executive-level engagement.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES / PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Activities & Program Learning Objectives
- Complete rotational assignments in various departments, gaining hands-on experience in plant operations, engineering projects, supply chain logistics, financial planning, sales strategy, quality assurance, and HR processes.
- Work on cross-functional projects to improve plant efficiency, product quality, cost savings, and employee engagement.
- Develop a broad understanding of food manufacturing, supply chain logistics, and business operations.
- Attend regular mentorship meetings with assigned director/sponsor to gain insights into company strategy, leadership, and career development.
- Assist with process improvement initiatives, data analysis, and key company projects during each rotation.
- Present key learnings and recommendations at the conclusion of each rotation to department leaders and executives.
Functional & Leadership Development
- Gain leadership skills through hands-on management experiences and team collaboration.
- Participate in professional development training, workshops, and networking opportunities.
- Work closely with MSI Express leadership to gain exposure to decision-making at the plant and corporate levels.
SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY
During each rotation, participants will work closely with plant management or corporate support teams to contribute to key projects while gaining hands-on experience in the day-to-day responsibilities of each role. This program is designed to provide a well-rounded understanding of food manufacturing, supply chain logistics, financial planning, customer engagement, and human capital management.
Participants will actively support operations, analyze business performance, drive efficiency improvements, and develop leadership skills through direct exposure to multiple facets of MSI Express. Each assignment will challenge them to think critically, apply problem-solving skills, and develop a deep understanding of how their department contributes to the overall success of the company.
Rotational Assignments Include:
- Operations – Gain firsthand experience in production efficiency, process optimization, plant leadership, people supervision, and management. Learn how to drive performance while ensuring safe and efficient operations.
- Engineering – Work on facility improvements, automation projects, and equipment maintenance.
- Finance – Analyze budgeting, cost control, and financial planning strategies, gaining insight into how financial decisions impact business operations.
- Supply Chain – Understand logistics, inventory management, scheduling, and demand planning to optimize product flow and minimize disruptions.
- Quality Assurance – Learn about compliance with food safety standards and regulatory guidelines, gaining expertise in FDA, NSF, and SQF requirements and standards.
- Human Resources – Support talent development, employee engagement, workforce planning, and leadership training initiatives.
By rotating through these key business areas, participants will develop a broad perspective on the company’s operations, leadership experience, and the strategic skills necessary to excel in a long-term career at MSI Express.
QUALIFICATIONS / CAPABILITY PROFILE
Minimum Education & Experience
✅ Bachelor’s degree (must have graduated within the last five years)
✅ Background in Business, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, Food Science, or related fields preferred
✅ No prior work experience required, but internship or co-op experience is a plus
Minimum Knowledge / Skills / Abilities
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and leadership potential
- Ability to adapt quickly to new environments and challenges
- Passion for food manufacturing, supply chain, and business operations
- Willingness to work in both plant and corporate environments in the Chicago area
COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
✅ Learning Agility – Ability to quickly understand and apply new concepts
✅ Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking – Approach challenges with data-driven decisions
✅ Teamwork & Collaboration – Work across multiple departments and build relationships
✅ Resilience & Adaptability – Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
✅ Leadership Potential – Demonstrate initiative and accountability in all assignments
PROGRAM BENEFITS & CAREER PATH
- Hands-on exposure to multiple business functions
- Mentorship from executive leadership
- Goal for permanent placement into a full-time management role upon program completion
- Fast-track career progression within MSI Express
MSI Express is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.