Production Manager

Due to promotion, we are seeking a Production Manager- 1^st shift for our plant in Rockford, IL, that produces cultured dairy products. In this critical role, you will lead plant operations production to meet and exceed plant budget and company goals. We seek an effective leader for our valued employees who will create a culture centered around our values while maintaining the highest standards in safety and quality. This position reports to the General Manager.

Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers. Since 1914, Kemps has provided families with fresh, delicious dairy products, fresh milk, frozen yogurt, sour cream, cottage cheese, and frozen novelty treats. By joining Kemps, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Leads and coordinates the activities of production and other plant employees engaged in the production or load out of dairy products to ensure safety, quality, cost, and customer standards are met. Responsible for overall plant operations in the Plant Manager's absence.
• Ensures that production supervisors work effectively with unionized employees to promote positive and productive working relationships. Assists supervisors in effectively applying work rules, union contract provisions, and employment policies. Ensures that discipline is administered consistently and fairly.
• Coaches others in conflict resolution to avoid grievances. Works with Human Resources and the Plant Manager to resolve employee grievances when filed.
• Initiates personnel actions such as promotions, transfers, discharges, and disciplinary measures. Reviews actions brought forth by production/cooler supervisors. Evaluates union employees on successful completion of probationary periods.
• Coaches and partners with non-union direct reports to effectively manage performance. Communicates company and cascading goals and assists performers in establishing goals that align with department and company goals. Provides ongoing performance feedback and conducts performance conversations per Kemps' Performance Management process. Holds direct reports accountable for results and works with them to cultivate capabilities and utilize strengths.
• Oversees and coordinates the development and maintenance of work practices and standard operating procedures. Accountable for plant compliance with the same. Personally develops complex or non-routine procedures for work process changes, new products, and new equipment.
• Understands and fulfills the requirements of the SQF 2000 Level 3 code of regulation for food safety and quality. Manages policies, procedures, and programs related to operations. Fosters continuous improvement to maintain the SQF 2000 Level 3 certification.
• Actively promotes safe work behaviors and holds self and direct reports accountable for following safety rules and regulations. Conducts accident/injury investigations and sends reports of injury to HR in a timely manner to meet rapid reporting standards. May coordinate and/or facilitate plant safety meetings, training, and incentive programs. May be responsible for monitoring the intake procedures of raw dairy products, ensuring high-quality standards are met, and product shortages are avoided. May be responsible for ordering dairy products.
• May be responsible for supervising clean-up operations to obtain optimum production and utilization of manpower, machines, and equipment. May coordinate production activities with procurement, maintenance, and quality assurance.
• May be responsible for the identification of damaged and erroneously delivered orders. May work with supervisors and cooler employees to correct shortages or discrepancies in product stock levels.

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Food Science Technology, or Engineering with an emphasis in manufacturing operations is desired. Will consider equivalent work experience in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on plant experience in the dairy plant or food industry operations.
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in the dairy plant or food industry operations.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Experience with Union, Safety, and Workers' Compensation preferred.
• Skilled at leading and following Safety/Security Policies and Procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to follow all Sanitation and Quality Policies and Procedures; report and follow through on any deficiencies.
• HACCP, SQA experience/certifications are a plus.
• Ability to follow Continuous Improvement (CI) Processes in the Management Operating Structure (MOS).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, ERP systems, and other analytical tools.
• Ability to adapt to changing organizational and operational needs; ability to lead others through change.
• Strong organization and prioritization abilities with keen attention to detail.
• Strong team player and leader with the ability to work across multiple functions and disciplines.
• Ability to select, coach, develop, engage, and retain a team of employees.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package available 1^st of the month after start date
• 401(k) with company contribution - 100% vested on day one of eligibility
• Competitive pay
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
• Service recognition and employee rewards
• Employee referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Work for dairy farm families

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans