Job Description

We are seeking a strategic, results-driven General Manager to lead all aspects of operations at our ice cream manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in frozen dessert production , combined with proven leadership across plant operations, quality, safety, and continuous improvement .

This role is accountable for ensuring the facility delivers on production goals, food safety standards, and cost targets — while fostering a high-performing culture centered on quality, collaboration, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all functions within the ice cream manufacturing plant, including production, quality, maintenance, sanitation, and warehousing.

• Ensure full compliance with food safety regulations and certifications (FDA, USDA, HACCP, SQF, GMP).

• Oversee production planning, batching, freezing, and packaging to meet volume, quality, and delivery targets.

• Drive operational excellence through KPI monitoring and improvement (OEE, yield, downtime, labor efficiency, waste).

• Champion a culture of safety , accountability, and employee engagement across all departments.

• Hire, train, and develop plant leadership and hourly teams , ensuring alignment with company values and performance expectations.

• Implement Lean, Six Sigma, or TPM methodologies to improve throughput and reduce cost per unit.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with QA, R&D, Supply Chain, and Corporate Leadership to ensure alignment on product development, launches, and compliance.

• Manage plant budgets, capital investment projects , and long-term resource planning.

• Regularly report on performance metrics, staffing, and compliance to executive leadership.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or Business (Master’s preferred).

• 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in food manufacturing , including 5+ years in ice cream or frozen dessert operations .

• Demonstrated success managing plant P&L , delivering operational KPIs, and leading cross-functional teams in a regulated environment.

Skills & Knowledge

• Deep technical understanding of ice cream manufacturing processes , including mix formulation, pasteurization, freezing, inclusion handling, and packaging.

• Expert knowledge of food safety systems and regulatory compliance requirements.

• Strong leadership and team development skills with a track record of building high-performance cultures .

• Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.

• Experience with ERP and MES systems; data-driven decision-making skills.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Certifications

• HACCP Certified

• SQF Practitioner or PCQI

• Six Sigma or Lean Certification

• OSHA Safety Certification

Working Conditions

• Based on-site at a high-volume manufacturing facility with exposure to cold temperatures, noise, and food processing equipment.

• Must be available for on-call support and occasional weekend/night shift coverage based on operational needs.

Why Join Us?

• Lead operations at a modern, innovation-driven ice cream facility .

• Be a key driver of growth, quality, and sustainability in a fast-paced consumer goods company.

• Competitive compensation package including base salary, performance bonuses , and full benefits.

• Opportunities for executive-level growth and strategic leadership in a growing business.

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