Operations Manager - RIBUS : Job Details

Company: RIBUS, Inc. – A 32-year-old, privately-held company specializing in natural and organic ingredients for food, dietary supplement, and pet industries is looking for a full-time Operations Manager to join our team. RIBUS has achieved sustained growth, making us a leader in delivering high-quality, clean label and innovative ingredients.

Position Summary:

The Operations Manager will lead the daily operations across RIBUS's supply chain and production functions to ensure seamless, efficient, and quality-driven manufacturing. Working closely with both the Supply Chain and Production teams, this role is responsible for strategic demand planning, resource allocation, continuous improvement initiatives and production leadership. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader with production experience, strong problem-solving skills and an ability to drive operational excellence in a dynamic, ever-changing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Oversight: Provide strategic direction and daily oversight to both the Supply Chain and Production teams to ensure successful fulfilment of operational goals within company objectives.

Cross-Functional Coordination: Using information provided by customers, distributors and the Global Account Manager, plan and synchronize production /and supply chain efforts, to ensure on time and consistent product availability.

Resource Planning and Allocation:

• Manage resources, including staffing, materials, and budgets, to meet production demands and optimize operational efficiency.
• Manage inventory levels, production scheduling, and resource allocation for supply chain and production teams to execute to meet customer demand and appropriate levels of finished product inventory.

Relationship Building and Nurturing:

• Assume relationships with existing suppliers and contract manufacturers to ensure open lines of communication, trust and consistent production across multiple sites and product lines.
• Utilize your existing network of industry knowledge and contacts to further grow RIBUS' network of trusted suppliers and support our reputation within the industry.

Process Optimization and Continuous Improvement:

• Identify and implement Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce waste, and drive cost efficiencies.
• Develop and manage KPIs for operational efficiency, inventory turnover, cost control, and on-time delivery.

Risk and Compliance Management: Collaborate with Quality Manager to ensure all operational activities comply with industry regulations and standards, especially regarding safety, quality, and environmental sustainability.

Strategic Planning and Budget Management:

• Lead annual and quarterly planning for operations, aligning resources with growth targets and cost control objectives.
• Prepare and manage operations budgets, monitoring expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Mentor and support the professional growth of the Supply Chain Specialists and Production Manager, fostering a culture of continuous learning and performance improvement.
• Promote a collaborative and accountable team environment focused on achieving operational excellence.

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Leverage data analytics and operational metrics to inform decisions, monitor performance, and identify improvement areas.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in operations management within the food, nutraceutical, or similar manufacturing industry.
• 10+ years of experience working production line(s) within the food, nutraceutical, or similar manufacturing industry.
• Confidence in real-time problem solving and willingness to roll up your sleeves and help find a solution.
• Proven leadership experience, including managing cross-functional teams and overseeing both supply chain and production functions.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (experience with Sage X3 is a plus) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word). Experience with a CRM is a plus but is not required.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, with experience in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to drive projects to completion.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) program with company matching.
• Paid time off and flexible work options.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within a growing company.