Plant Manager

Shoreline Fruit is the largest tart cherry producer in North America operating over 6000 acres of cherry orchards in Michigan, growing and processing over 50 million pounds of cherries each year. A grower owned company built from two families' stories filled with pride and hard work that continues to grow in its reach of customers locally and around the globe. Working at our production facility, you will be joining the team that processes the finest cherry products and other dried fruits available anywhere in the world. We are dedicated to the continuous improvement of our people, processes and products.

Position Summary: The Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Williamsburg manufacturing facility, ensuring the efficient, safe, cost effective and compliant production of quality, food safe fruit products. This role involves managing production planning, production activities, warehousing and inventory operations and maintenance operations to optimize processes, control costs, and ensure regulatory, safety and quality compliance. The Plant Manager will lead their combined Team to meet production goals and satisfy customer demands while ensuring that the facility operates in alignment with company policies and industry regulations.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Oversee all aspects of daily production operations in the food manufacturing facility.
• Develop, implement, and optimize production schedules to meet customer demand and achieve business goals.
• Ensure that production goals and expectations are clearly defined, clearly communicated and regularly achieved in terms of quantity, cost and quality.
• Monitor the performance of staff, machinery and equipment and facilities and related infrastructure to ensure that these critical components remain in good condition and operate at maximum efficiency.
• Develop, monitor and manage the plant's operational and capital budgets.
• Monitor and control costs related to labor, direct materials, equipment and facility operations, supplies and overhead expenses to achieve operating goals and maximize profitability.
• Ensure adherence to food safety standards, quality control procedures, and industry regulations (e.g., FDA, HACCP, GMP).
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, environmental and wastewater standards, including managing outside consultants and overseeing regular audits and inspections.
• Ensure that the production process consistently meets the company's quality and safety standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits, ensuring corrective actions are implemented.
• Lead, mentor, and supervise planning, production, warehousing and maintenance managers.
• Set clear performance expectations and conduct performance reviews for all direct reports.
• Provide training and development programs for direct reports to enhance skills and ensure compliance with company standards.
• Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Address employee concerns timely and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Implement cost-reduction initiatives without compromising product quality or safety.
• Collaborate with the procurement and supply chain team to prepare forecasts, communicate needs and ensure a steady and efficient supply of raw materials.
• Monitor inventory levels to avoid stockouts or overstocking, ensure seamless, on-time production and manage carrying costs
• Ensure proper storage and handling of ingredients and finished products to maintain their quality.
• Monitor and maintain building and equipment security and safety.
• Maintain stewardship and good housekeeping of Plant assets through the use of 5-S program.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of facilities, equipment and infrastructure and all related preventative maintenance programs to ensure the longevity and performance of plant assets and minimize downtime.
• Analyze production processes and implement improvements to increase productivity, reduce waste, control costs and improve overall efficiency.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging employees to identify areas for improvement and working with direct reports to implement ideas.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and other process optimization methodologies.
• Prepare and present regular reports on production performance, quality metrics, cost analysis, and staffing levels.
• Communicate effectively with senior management on the performance of the Plant, including production, yield and cost summaries and challenges faced by the production teams.
• Ensure smooth communication across departments, including production, maintenance, HR, and logistics.
• Work with customers, suppliers and other departments to ensure the timely production and delivery of quality products.
• Address customer complaints or concerns related to product quality or delivery issues in a timely manner.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Process Engineering, Business Management, or a related field. Advanced certifications in food safety, Lean Six Sigma or manufacturing management are a plus.
• Minimum of 5 -7 years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a management or leadership role.
• HACCP, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing certification is desirable.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, quality standards, and operational procedures.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and financial management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in production management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must have effective coaching, facilitation, presentation, problem solving and team building skills.
• Knowledge and application of tools such as 5S, 5 Why and Continuous Improvement.

Shoreline Fruit is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.