Manager, Co Manufacturing (Remote with Travel)

Summary

We are actively recruiting for an experienced Manager in our Co-Manufacturing department.  This person will be responsible for sourcing contract manufacturing production capacity for all Perdue businesses and for ensuring the best value to Perdue concerning cost, quality and service provided by the contract manufacturer/supplier. Other responsibilities include negotiating and resolving disputes with contract manufacturers/suppliers, conducting presentations to leadership team, and bi-annual business reviews with the 3rd party locations. This position is expected to play a role in driving plan adherence, schedule adherence, and performing data maintenance. Specific responsibilities include coordinating and scheduling the production of Perdue products by generating and evaluating reports to determine the amount of finished product needed to meet a production plan; monitoring finished goods inventory; working with contract manufacturer/supplier to determine weekly material needs; working with Production Scheduling to supply the materials - working with each contract manufacturer/supplier  to understand their available capacity line process detail and troubleshoot production line layouts for efficiencies and quality concerns. Establishing financial models with the contract manufacturer and ensure production metrics are tied to the financial models such as yields & scrap production metrics. Other responsibilities include direct communication with many Perdue departments including but not limited to Quality Assurance, Operations, Purchasing, Customer Service, Transportation, Finance and Legal. The successful candidate will be responsible for independently managing strategic partnerships with high complexity. The position will be involved in capital investments for innovation opportunities to expand capabilities and/or capacity for volume growth. 

Principal and Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage contract manufacturing network to develop and maintain production schedules to meet company demands and customer orders.  Track production metrics, including output, quality, and efficiency, to ensure co-manufacturing meet performance standards.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align co-manufacturing activities with product development, sourcing, and distribution plans.
• Ensure all co-manufacturing activities comply with industry regulations, company standards, and food safety guidelines. Perform regular audits of co-packing facilities to verify adherence.
• Monitor inventory levels to ensure sufficient raw materials and finished products are available to meet production needs. Control costs associated with co-packing, seeking opportunities to reduce expenses without compromising quality. Oversee the preparation and management of the co-packing budget.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality and safety.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration or related field plus 4-8 years related work experience.  In lieu of a degree, relevant experience may be considered. Strong understanding of meat processing (fresh & prepared), food safety regulations, and quality control.  Proven track record of continuous improvement in process management, cost, and quality and food safety.  Ability to negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships. Travel to co-packing facilities as needed (up to 25%).

PREFERRED:  MBA

Environmental Factors and Physical Requirements

Position is mostly sedentary but may require occasional moving to other offices or buildings.  May need to move light equipment or supplies from one place to another. May need to access files, supplies and equipment.