DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS (MIDWEST)

Do you have FEED MANUFACTURING or grain processing experience and are looking to grow with a four-time US Best Managed Company Award-Winner? Kent Nutrition Group, a member of the KENT Corporation family of companies, has an incredible BRAND NEW opportunity to join our team as the Director of Operations for our Western Region! This critical role will oversee the day-to-day activities of the 5 western manufacturing plants located in Altoona IA, Columbus NE, Sheldon IA, Ireton IA and Waterloo IA, ensuring that the plants are managed and performing efficiently and effectively.

• The successful candidate must reside within the Midwest territory (Iowa preferred) or be willing to relocate.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with plants/feed mills to review, analyze, and evaluate business procedures to ensure work environments are safe and adequate (provide policies and procedures that will improve day-to-day operations)
• Develop manufacturing plan to maintain high standards of manufacturing operations to ensure that products conform to established customer and company quality standards.
• Drive continuous improvement in Key Performance Indicators in quality, safety, efficiency and cost.
• Provide accurate, detailed feedback to corporate engineering, sales, formulations, technology, and customer service divisions to produce smoother workflow and more cost-effective business processes.
• Provide support to Plant/Feed Mill Managers of each location in the hiring and training of departmental managers.
• Initiate, oversee, and review with plant management individual budgets vs plant spend.
• Project a positive image of the organization to employees, customers, industry, and community.
• Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.
• Assist in disciplinary action and termination of employees as needed and in accordance with company policy along with Corporate Human Resources and Legal.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree or minimum of 5 years of experience in previous applicable leadership positions. 

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5 or more years of diversified leadership experience in operations/engineering (feed mill/grain processing highly preferred)
• Thorough understanding of manufacturing practices, theories, and policies involved in operations.
• Experience demonstrating analytical and creative problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to write, interpret and analyze financial and business reports, documents, and information.
• Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and decision-making abilities
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

TRAVEL:

• 50% Travel

The above statements cover what are generally believed to be the principal and essential functions of this job.  Specific circumstances may allow or require some people assigned to the job to perform a somewhat different combination of duties.