Role Overview for VP Operations with a Bakery Manufacturer – Orlando, FL
The Vice President of Operations will serve as the strategic and tactical leader for all manufacturing and operational functions of the company. This executive will have full P&L responsibility for the operational side of the business, overseeing production, supply chain management, logistics, quality assurance, safety, and engineering. The primary objective is to ensure that all operational activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in a cost-effective manner, while consistently meeting the highest standards of quality and customer service. This role demands a unique blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and hands-on operational expertise. You will be instrumental in driving the company’s growth by scaling production capabilities, optimizing the supply chain, and implementing best-in-class manufacturing practices. You will lead a large, diverse team and cultivate a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement that empowers employees and drives results.
Key Responsibilities of VP Operations with a Bakery Manufacturer – Orlando, FL
Strategic Leadership & Operational Planning
- Develop and execute a multi-year operational strategy that supports the company’s overall business plan, focusing on scalability, efficiency, and profitability.
- Collaborate with the executive team to set company-wide goals and objectives, providing critical operational insights and recommendations.
- Lead the annual operating plan (AOP) and budgeting process for all operational departments, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
- Champion a culture of continuous improvement, deploying methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to drive waste reduction and process optimization.
- Direct capital expenditure planning and execution for facilities, machinery, and technology to enhance capacity and capability.
Production & Manufacturing Excellence
- Oversee all aspects of the manufacturing process across multiple production lines and facilities to ensure production targets for volume, quality, and cost are consistently met.
- Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), first-pass yield, on-time delivery, and labor efficiency.
- Drive initiatives to improve production flow, reduce cycle times, and minimize downtime through effective maintenance programs and process engineering.
- Evaluate and integrate new manufacturing technologies, automation, and systems to improve efficiency and maintain a competitive edge.
Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics Management
- Direct the end-to-end supply chain function, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and logistics.
- Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply of raw materials and ingredients.
- Optimize inventory levels to balance working capital requirements with production needs, minimizing stockouts and excess inventory.
- Oversee inbound and outbound logistics to ensure timely and efficient distribution of finished goods to customers, managing transportation costs and carrier performance.
Quality Assurance & Safety Compliance
- Uphold and enhance the company’s commitment to producing safe, high-quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations and regulatory requirements.
- Lead the Quality Assurance team to ensure robust quality management systems are in place and effectively maintained.
- Ensure strict adherence to global standards like the Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program, HACCP, and GMPs.
- Champion a world-class safety culture throughout the organization, ensuring compliance with all OSHA and environmental regulations to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations leadership team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
- Establish clear goals and expectations for the operations team, providing regular feedback, coaching, and performance management.
- Promote employee engagement and create a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent.
- Partner with Human Resources on workforce planning, talent acquisition, and succession planning for key operational roles.
Requirements for the VP Operations with a Bakery Manufacturer – Orlando, FL
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (Director or VP level).
- Significant experience within the food and beverage manufacturing industry is mandatory; experience in a commercial bakery environment is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated success in managing multi-site operations and a proven track record of driving significant operational improvements and cost savings.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing a full P&L, developing budgets, and overseeing capital projects.
- Expert knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, TPM) and a history of successful implementation.
- In-depth understanding of food safety regulations, quality systems (SQF, BRC), and workplace safety standards (OSHA).
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) or an advanced degree in a relevant field.
- Experience in a high-growth, private equity-backed environment is highly desirable.
- Certification in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma (e.g., Black Belt).
- Proven experience with modern ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels of the organization.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus potential.
- Long-term incentive plan with equity participation opportunities.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.
- Company-paid life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability coverage.
- Relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- A professional development allowance to support continuous learning and growth.
- The opportunity to work with a passionate, dedicated leadership team and make a lasting impact on a growing company.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is leading the exclusive search for this VP of Operations role. If you are a results-oriented, strategic operations leader with the experience and passion to drive excellence in a dynamic bakery manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and accomplishments.
JRG Partners specializes in placing top executive talent within the consumer goods sector. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Food & Beverage Automation & Robotics Executive Search Firm page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
