Director of Manufacturing

Director of Manufacturing

We are partnered with a leading and privately operated milling company that is seeking a leader to oversee the operations of their unique food ingredients organization. This role provides a unique opportunity to advance your career by enabling an organization with over 75 years of success, to take their operation to the next level. This well-respected company has global clients offering tremendous expansion potential, leading to excellent career development within the organization and the overall milling industry.

What’s in it for you

• Lead operations at a respected, long-established manufacturer known for high-quality grain products.
• Join a strategic leadership team, reporting directly to the President and CEO.
• Drive real impact across production, maintenance, and process improvement initiatives.
• Shape the future of the company through innovation in milling and packaging.
• Be part of a collaborative, people-first culture with strong values and long-term vision.
• Enjoy a high degree of autonomy and ownership in your role.
• Competitive compensation package and professional development opportunities.
• Located in a scenic, close-knit community with low cost of living.

This role will be responsible for

• Overseeing all manufacturing and maintenance operations across milling and packaging.
• Leading cross-functional teams to optimize production efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Managing production schedules and driving improvements in yield, throughput, and cost.
• Developing long-term manufacturing strategies aligned with company growth objectives.
• Ensuring full compliance with food safety regulations and quality control systems.
• Managing capital projects and equipment upgrades to enhance operations.
• Leading the maintenance team in proactive and reactive equipment support.
• Fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Expectations will include

• Setting and tracking KPIs for production efficiency, quality, and cost control.
• Leading and mentoring a team of six direct reports across operations and maintenance.
• Collaborating with departments such as Sales, Supply Chain, QA, and Finance.
• Identifying opportunities for process optimization and cost reduction.
• Driving a strong safety culture specific to the milling and packaging environment.
• Managing the operations and maintenance budget with a focus on ROI.
• Maintaining high standards for employee engagement, retention, and development.
• Communicating operational performance and strategic initiatives to executive leadership.

A qualified candidate will possess the following

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing operations, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of grain milling, food processing, or similar manufacturing environments.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing diverse teams and direct reports.
• Strong analytical capabilities and data-driven decision-making.
• Expertise in quality control, maintenance best practices, and food safety regulations.
• Demonstrated success in leading continuous improvement and lean initiatives.
• Proficiency in manufacturing software and technology.
• High integrity, strategic thinking, and the ability to thrive under pressure.

Compensation: This role offers a competitive base salary range based on overall experience with an additional incentive package based on personal goals and organizational success.

Benefits: This position includes a full health and retirement benefits for the individual.

Desired Location: This position is based in the plant and will require candidates to live in SE Minnesota or SW Wisconsin.

*Candidates must be eligible to work in the US as well as meet the qualifications listed above in order to be considered for the Director of Manufacturing job.

Job Id: 17528