General Manager (Dairy Manufacturing Environment)

Our client, Jensen Cheese, a division of A.M. Jensen Limited, is a third-generation, family-owned Canadian cheese manufacturer with a proud heritage dating back to 1925. Based in Ontario, the company specializes in producing high-quality artisanal cheeses using traditional methods, including distinctive “Old World” curing and cheddaring processes. With a strong commitment to craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and customer service, the organization has built a strong reputation for delivering premium products while maintaining the values of a longstanding family business.

Are you passionate about business and organizational success?

The Pod Group is partnering with this amazing organization to place a resourceful, hands-on, and organized individual to fulfill the role of a General Manager.

WHY YOUR ROLE MATTERS🔍

The General Manager, under the direction of the Owner/President, will be accountable for the following primary business functions:

• Heat Treated Cheddar Cheese and Fresh Curd Production and Distribution
• Retail Sales and Retail Store Sales

The General Manager is responsible for implementing and overseeing company-wide policies and procedures to ensure compliance with requirements and alignment with best practice standards across key areas, including Manufacturing (Logistics and Distribution), Quality (HACCP), Safety, and Human Resources Management. The role develops and monitors strategic performance metrics and targets aligned with organizational objectives, while also leading the development and management of the annual budget and submitting long-term financial plans for the Wilton location.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT🎯

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop strategic performance metrics and targets that are consistent with company goals.
• Develop and control annual budget and long-term financial plans.
• Develop an operational plan which incorporates goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of the organization.
• Develop and implement both short- and long-term tactical and strategic plans in accordance with business goals and objectives.
• Identify and evaluate risks to the company, both internal and external.
• Set strategic objectives for the Wilton location and ensure that planning initiatives are implemented to maximize strategic growth.
• Develop and monitor a retail and retail sales business plan for the Wilton location in conjunction with overall Company plans and policies.
• Stay up to date on new and emerging trends in the food and dairy manufacturing industry.

Operations & Continuous Improvement

• Develop, implement, and monitor an effective maintenance program for the facility to ensure consistent and safe operation.
• Continually review and monitor critical ongoing manufacturing project information specific to budgets, timelines, and production to determine whether targets and goals are being met.
• Establish workflow and assembly methods to maximize efficiency of manufacturing, logistics, and retail operations at the Wilton location.
• Develop innovative changes in workflow, operations, and equipment to maximize production efficiency.
• Evaluate the performance of each department within the company, ensuring production goals are met and budgets are maintained.
• Develop new ways of manufacturing, improving existing manufacturing processes or adopting better manufacturing processes.
• Perform periodic field inspections of manufactured goods both prior to and during manufacturing to determine compliance with approved plans and regulations at the request of inspectors.

Compliance & Stakeholder Relations

• Create or approve company-wide policies and procedures, ensuring they meet or exceed compliance requirements and best practice standards.
• Develop company policies and standards for cost control, waste reduction, quality, and safety.
• Manage the Company’s Milk Entitlement Quota and maintain a strong and positive relationship with the Dairy Farmers of Ontario.
• Maintain positive relationships with Industry peers and competitors within the Dairy Industry in Canada.
• Cultivate a work environment committed to the health, safety, and wellness of all employees.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING🎓

• Post-secondary education in a manufacturing related discipline.
• 10 years of progressive management experience within the manufacturing environment.
• Relevant industry certifications or licenses required.
• Strong business acumen with a solid understanding of manufacturing operations and industry challenges.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, both formal and informal, with the ability to influence and guide teams effectively.
• Proven ability to identify issues and implement creative, strategic solutions.
• Experience in budget preparation, financial oversight, and resource management.
• Proficiency with computer systems, including MS Windows and MRP software.
• Flexible work hours and occasional travel required.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EDIB

The success of an organization stems from a team that is aligned with its mission and vision, where decisions are made in the best interests of the clients they serve and the marginalized and vulnerable populations across our communities. Through this effort, all team members embrace their roles in the organization with respect and dignity for all stakeholders. Through these partnerships, everyone is focused on ensuring a commitment and responsibility toward anti-racism, anti-oppression, equity, diversity, inclusivity, and belonging.

OUR PARTNERSHIP - THE POD GROUP

The Pod Group (PG) connects candidates with amazing career opportunities in Ontario! We collaborate extensively with not-for-profit and community-based organizations, including health, social services, developmental, housing, mental health, and community health care.

We promote a unique candidate experience that integrates equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging in our engagement with candidates. Our recruitment strategy focuses on learning more about your career goals and aligning your passion with mission-driven work.

We thank you for your interest in applying!

Salary Range: $100,000 to $120,000 CAD Annually

Vacancy: Current Opening