Plant Manager, WDP, Alberta - Red Deer

at  Vitalus Nutrition Inc

The primary role of the Plant Manager is to oversee all aspects of the manufacturing operations at the WDP facility in Alberta, including; production planning and processes, maintenance, product quality, inventory management, continuous improvement and safety.
The primary objective of this position is to provide leadership to all employees, maximize the level of operations and quality performance of our products, create a work culture of inclusion and engagement, develop and achieve budget, and maintain a safe work environment.
Working collaboratively with the VP, Operations, this role includes active participation in annual business planning, organizational projects and key initiatives, cross-company interactions, and developing positive relations with our business partner organization.

COMPETENCIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITY)

• Longer term approach to business planning, operational focus, business recommendations, and problem resolution.
• Applied knowledge in development of annual operational plans and budgets
• Maintains updated knowledge and strong technical expertise of HACCP and ISO standards, regulations, and practices.
• Exhibits professional maturity, confidence and competence.
• Demonstrates leadership ability and interpersonal skills that engage employees, create a team environment, drive employee productivity and competence, and achieve business goals.
• Proven ability to work in a complex environment with multiple priorities.
• Strong collaborator and proven ability to drive change
• Knowledge and application of lean manufacturing principles.
• Drive continuous improvement process/manufacturing improvements
• A sense of urgency with regards to moving projects forward and making operational improvements.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the proven ability to communicate one-on-one and in group settings.
• Conflict management skills with ability to effectively and expeditiously reach satisfactory resolution among all involved parties
• Problem solver with solid analytical skills and the ability to trouble shoot as the need arises. Involves staff in the decision-making process.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Post Secondary Education in one of the following disciplines: Science, Business or Engineering (Food, Manufacturing or Process) or Operations Management
• 5-10 years of Production experience in the Food Processing Industry. Experience in dairy an asset
• 5-7 years experience in a management role
• Strong people orientation balanced with an understanding of business needs
• Proven decision-making ability
• Strong collaboration capability
• Strong verbal & written communication skills
• Experience working under a HACCP/ISO system and maintaining this system.
• Knowledge & application of lean manufacturing principles.
• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems as well as Microsoft Office products including proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Navision knowledge a plus.
• Capability to work with internal departments, external partners, and diverse personalities in a manner that promotes positive relationships. Experience working within a culturally diverse work environment a plus.
• Builds a high-performance culture with a strong people orientation. Work environment, policies and practices reflect this orientation.

EMPLOYER SUMMARY:

Vitalus Nutrition’s purpose is, “Improving lives by unlocking the nutritional value of milk” and one way we do that is by taking high-quality Canadian milk, isolating the valuable components, and transforming them into specialized ingredients for the nutritional and industrial markets. We are a trusted international supplier of specialty ingredients including Milk Protein Concentrates, Milk Protein Isolates, and VITAGOS™ for large-scale processors and top tier brands.
Our team is proud of what we do and the contributions we make in both our local and global communities. Our culture is deeply rooted in our values of Integrity, Care, and Expertise.

We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that includes:

• Competitive Salary
• Health, Dental, Vision, AD&D, LTD & Life Insurance Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Learning opportunities
• Bonus Program
• RRSP/DPSP Program
• Service Recognition
• Social & Wellness Events