Director of Operations

How to Apply: Interested candidates should send their resume and a cover letter and a brief summary about why you are interested in this postion. Please send to operationsbellacucina.com. Please include "Director of Operations – Acidified Foods" in the subject line. Georgia residents only, please Company Overview: Bella Cucina is a small but influential leader in the specialty food industry, focusing on producing high-quality, artisan made food products. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and regulatory compliance, we are looking for a Director of Operations to join our team and lead the operations of our manufacturing facilities. This individual will ensure efficiency, safety, and adherence to FDA regulations and industry best practices. Job Summary: The Director of Operations will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the manufacturing process for acidified food products. This includes managing production lines, ensuring compliance with FDA and GDA regulations, optimizing manufacturing efficiency, and leading cross-functional teams to meet production and quality goals. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of acidified food processes, experience with FDA regulations (including Better Process Control requirements), and a passion for operational excellence. Key Responsibilities: Operational Leadership: Oversee daily operations of the manufacturing facility, including production, packaging, and logistics. Ensure production processes meet efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety standards. Lead, manage, and develop a team of production staff. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs. Regulatory Compliance: MUST HAVE Better Process Control School Certification for Acidified Foods Ensure compliance with GDA and FDA regulations for acidified foods, including acidification processes, filling, and sealing operations. Maintain and uphold the Better Process Control certification and other required regulatory standards. Lead internal and external audits, including those conducted by regulatory agencies, and implement corrective actions where necessary. Stay current on industry regulations and food safety best practices. Quality Assurance & Control: Work closely with Quality Assurance (QA) to maintain product quality and ensure adherence to strict quality control guidelines. Collaborate with R&D to support product development initiatives, ensuring new products meet production and regulatory standards. Oversee sanitation and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure a clean, safe working environment. Production Planning & Inventory Management: Manage production schedules and coordinate with supply chain teams to ensure the availability of raw materials and packaging. Ensure production targets are met while maintaining cost control and minimizing waste. Oversee inventory levels and raw material sourcing, working closely with procurement teams to forecast needs based on production schedules. Team Development & Leadership: Foster a positive, collaborative work environment focused on productivity, innovation, and professional development. Implement training programs for staff in areas such as food safety, acidified food handling, and operational best practices. Support recruitment, training, and retention of key personnel. Budgeting & Financial Management: Oversee the operational budget, including labor, materials, and production costs. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational efficiency, cost savings, and profitability. Prepare reports and updates for senior management regarding operational performance, budget adherence, and strategic goals. Qualifications: Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is preferred. Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in food manufacturing, with at least 3-5 years in acidified foods or a related industry. Comprehensive knowledge of FDA regulations, Better Process Control Certification, and acidified food processing. Proven experience leading operations in a regulated environment (GMP, HACCP, FSMA). Skills & Competencies: Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in leading large, cross-functional teams. Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills. Advanced knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or similar process improvement methodologies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficient in ERP systems, production planning software, and Microsoft Office Suite. Working Conditions: Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including occasional exposure to food production equipment and temperature-controlled environments. May involve occasional travel between production sites. Compensation: $65-85K annual salary, based on experience Company description Bella Cucina Artful Food is an established award-winning lifestyle brand. Our core business is focused around our hand-made artisanal food product line, sold both wholesale in the US and Canada, online and in our flagship retail store in Atlanta. We are a small, family business with big aspirations. A highlight has been a feature on Oprah’s most popular “Favorite Things” show, the December issue of "O" magazine Favorite Things issue , Food & Wine , Martha Stewart Living , Better Homes & Garden , and Cooking Light .