Director of Operations at Universal Corporation

Momence, Illinois, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

15 Sep, 26

Salary

175000.0

Posted On

17 Jun, 26

Experience

10 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Operational Leadership, Process Analysis, Budgetary Planning, Strategic Planning, Performance Management, Food Safety Culture, Continuous Improvement, Employee Management, Regulatory Compliance, Capital Expenditure Planning, Interdepartmental Collaboration, Microsoft Office, Quality Assurance, Preventative Maintenance Scheduling, Organizational Skills, Communication

Industry

Food Production

Description

Director of Operations The Director of Operations is responsible to provide leadership to the Receiving/Inventory, Production, Shipping, Continuous Improvement, Maintenance, and Housekeeping/Sanitation Departments. The Director of Operations will ensure efficient processes are in place to maximize the quality of Siva’s products and achieve high customer service levels by using a behavior-based approach to create a sustainable employee and food safety culture at Silva. The Director of Operations will work closely with the Vice President Operations to develop strategic objectives and key initiatives that drive long-term operational excellence. Objectives of This Role: • Sustained leadership development in Operations. • Sustained Employee and Food Safety culture. • Maximize efficiency and productivity through extensive process analysis and interdepartmental collaboration. • Set strategic goals for operational efficiency resulting in high Quality, Food Safety, and increased productivity. • Work with Department Managers in the development of financial and budgetary plans. • Analyze current operational processes and performance, recommending solutions for improvement where necessary. • Work closely with Engineering in development of capital expenditure plans/projects. Job Responsibilities: • Develop, implement, and monitor day-to-day operational systems and processes to provide visibility into the goals, progress, and obstacles of key initiatives. • Draw on relationships with Department Heads, external partners, and vendors to make decisions regarding operational activity and strategic goals. • Plan, monitor, and analyze key metrics for day-to-day operations to ensure efficient and timely completion of tasks. • Devise strategies for ensuring the growth of programs company-wide and implement process improvements to maximize Employee Safety, Food Safety, Quality, Delivery, and minimize Costs while ensuring a People focus. • Adhere to the company’s policies and standards and ensure that laws and regulations are being followed. • Lead the team with integrity and to establish and maintain a trusting, inclusive, and productive environment that reflects Silva core values. • Work closely with the Safety Manager and CSSC (Central Safety Steering Committee) to execute Silva Safety programs and foster a behavior-based safety culture that results in high levels of employee safety. • Work closely with the Production Manager and Scheduling Team to review production schedules for all production rooms to ensure that order requirements are met while maintaining the highest efficiency possible. • Identify production constraints and work to remove them from the production process to improve equipment efficiencies and enhance Quality, Food Safety, and productivity. • Encourage and promote operating in a continuous improvement environment. • Work closely with the Quality Assurance department to review product quality, consistency and to confirm adherence to specification. • Work closely with the Maintenance department to schedule PM (preventative maintenance) time, process/continuous improvement, and identification of equipment requiring immediate attention. • Provide coaching and guidance to all Operations department employees. • Conduct performance reviews. • Review and support department heads in performance management. • Ensure Silva facilities are maintained to “audit ready” standards. • Collaborate with HR team on personnel, training, performance management, investigations, and employee relations. QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: • Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related field. • Ten or more years in a senior leadership role in a field related to our industry. • Masterful organizational, communication, and leadership skills, backed by previous professional success. • Superior knowledge of multiple operational functions and principles, including finance, customer service, production, and employee management. • Proven ability to plan and manage operational processes for maximum efficiency and productivity. • Ability to streamline or implement structures and roles that increase food safety and efficiency while supporting rapidly shifting business demands. • Strong working knowledge of industry regulations and legal guidelines. • Able to work irregular or extended hours as needed to connect with staff on all shifts. • Proficient in Microsoft Office PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: • Lifting up to 50 lbs. as single person lift • Climbing (ladders, stairs, etc.) • Bending and stooping • Extended periods of being on your feet • Standard Manufacturing Environment, Standard Office Environment This is a full-time, salary exempt position (expected pay range = $140,000-$175,000/year) with benefits package that includes paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401k retirement plan with generous employer match, employee assistance program, employer gift-matching program, and wellness program. Additionally, this role may qualify for supplemental compensation in the form of a performance-based bonus. To apply, please upload a resume online or send a resume to HR@silva-intl.com [HR@silva-intl.com] All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. EOE M/F/Disabled/Vet Employer Who We Are Silva International Silva International, a subsidiary of Universal Ingredients (see more information below about Universal Ingredients), is a global leader in providing dried vegetable, herb, and fruit ingredients to the food sector, we know that our team members are the reason for our success. When you work at Silva, you’re a part of a dedicated, supportive, and passionate team where you can be valued and cared for as you build your career, develop your character, grow as a leader, and feed the world. Universal Ingredients Universal Ingredients is a global supplier of high-quality, plant-based specialty ingredients for human and pet consumption. With thousands of products and global sourcing capabilities, we provide customized, value-added solutions – including fruit and vegetable juices and concentrates, dehydrated ingredients, botanical extracts, flavors, and beverage systems – for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide. Our advanced production capabilities, including aseptic beverage processing and flexible packaging solutions, enable safe, shelf-stable products with no preservatives. At the heart of our innovation is our Application Capabilities Lab, where food science experts collaborate with customers to develop market-ready solutions through product development, flavor analysis, sensory testing, and commercialization support. Driven by innovation, sustainability, and partnership, Universal Ingredients helps customers stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences while delivering consistent quality, functionality, and performance across global markets.

Responsibilities

The Director of Operations provides leadership across multiple departments including production, shipping, and maintenance to maximize product quality and customer service. They are responsible for developing strategic objectives, ensuring food and employee safety, and optimizing operational efficiency through process analysis.