The Company
Founded in 2015 by CEO Toyin Kolawole, IYA Foods is a manufacturer of high-quality, delicious snacks and blends for nationwide private label and co-manufacturing customers. IYA Foods produces authentic African-inspired food products that reflect its founder’s origins and the continent’s culture of nourishment and exceptional flavors. The company’s gluten-free products include savory simmer sauces, flours, dried hibiscus flowers and powders, and spices and seasonings available to customers through retail, wholesale and food service channels. IYA Foods is headquartered in Naperville, IL and venture backed by Cleveland Avenue.
The Role
IYA Foods has experienced strong growth and recently moved into a new 40,000 square foot production facility. To capitalize upon its growth opportunities, the company is seeking to hire its first Plant Manager to further promote a culture of operational discipline and continuous improvement to improve productivity. The Plant Manager will oversee the daily operations of the plant and be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising all activities related to production, quality control, maintenance, and logistics. In addition, the Plant Manager will develop processes that maximize stewardship, safety, quality, and productivity. This new leadership role will report to and work closely with the Chief Executive Officer and be located onsite in Naperville, IL.
Experience & Requirements
• College or technical degree in related field.
• Proven work experience as a Plant Manager, preferably with a 5-10 years of work experience in food and or snacks manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of production processes, equipment, and tools used in the manufacturing industry.
• In-depth understanding of regulatory requirements and quality standards for food manufacturing.
• Be knowledgeable of safety, quality, productivity, demand creation, inventory, and stewardship processes.
• Adequate knowledge of business and management principles (budgeting, strategic planning, resource allocation, and human resources)
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills
• Computer literacy with ability to analyze data, make informed decisions, and implement effective solutions.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize work within deadlines.
• Results-driven mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a diverse team.
• Proven leadership skills and demonstrated understanding and application of lean manufacturing principles or equivalent methodologies.
• Good oral and written communication skills as well as interpersonal skills such as analyzing and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to recommend and manage capital projects.
• Computer skills, i.e. Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work with and through Plant maintenance with outside contractors, and production personnel at all levels to achieve corporate goals.
• Ability to manage, coach, train and motivate personnel at all levels.
• A desire to develop and work in a team environment on all plant related issues.
