Plant Manager

AmpersandPeople • Full-time • Winchester, VA, US • $105,000 - $125,000 / year • 6m ago

About Us

Desi Fresh Foods is a leading “cultured” dairy manufacturer with over 23 years of experience. We produce high-quality and consistent products, which include yogurt (Dahi or Indian, Greek and traditional), smoothies / yogurt drinks, sour cream, and dips from single serve options to food service sides. We are currently seeking a skilled Plant Manager to join our team and contribute to the ongoing success of our facility in Winchester, Virginia!

About The Role

As Plant Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the production facility. This role involves managing production staff, ensuring efficient and effective production processes, meeting production targets, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. The Plant Manager will play a crucial role in driving operational excellence and continuous improvement across the production department. The ideal candidate has experience leading food or dairy manufacturing operations at scale, driving continuous improvement, and building a high-performance culture.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and coordinate all production activities, including scheduling, workflow, and resource allocation. Ensure production schedules are met and maintain high levels of efficiency and productivity.
Develop and implement strategies to drive efficiency, productivity, and continuous improvement.
Build and mentor a high-performing leadership team, fostering accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
Promote a results-driven, people-first culture that aligns employees with Desi’s objectives.
Implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and data-driven decision-making to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
Optimize key performance indicators (KPIs) such as OEE, labor utilization, and throughput.
Ensure full compliance with FDA, USDA, OSHA, HACCP, and internal quality and safety standards.
Champion a safety-first culture by enforcing EHS programs and reducing workplace incidents.
Develop and manage production budgets, including labor, materials, and overhead costs. Monitor expenses and implement cost-control measures to stay within budget.
Oversee inventory levels of raw materials and finished goods. Collaborate with procurement and logistics teams to ensure timely and efficient material handling and storage..
Lead CapEx projects, including facility upgrades, new equipment installations, and automation initiatives.
Ensure plant infrastructure and equipment are optimized for long-term operational reliability.

Qualifications & Experience

10+ years of experience in plant operations leadership within the CPG, food, dairy, or beverage industry.
Proven experience managing multi-functional teams (production, quality, maintenance, supply chain) in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of food manufacturing regulations (FDA, USDA, SQF, HACCP, OSHA).
Hands-on expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
Experience managing P&L, budgeting, and cost optimization in a manufacturing setting.
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
Familiarity with production management software (e.g., ERP systems) and standard office applications (e.g., MS Office).
Background in high-growth or entrepreneurial manufacturing environments.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. This role has a pay range of $105,000-$125,000 annually. The pay range provided is an estimated base pay range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, education, and location.

Desi Fresh Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.