Vice President of Operations - Oakland, United States - Voyage Foods

Description

Job Description

Who we are

At Voyage Foods, our mission is to make delicious, sustainable and accessible foods that are better for people and the planet. All of our products work together to support and sustain a food system designed for everyone, now and into the future. We're a team of food scientists, CPG experts, and professionals with a passion for making good food available for generations to come.

What do peanut butter, chocolate and coffee have in common? They're some of our favorite foods, but are inaccessible and unsustainable. That's why we created our Nut-Free Spreads, Cocoa-Free Chocolate and Bean-Free Coffee. From food allergies to climate change and unjust labor practices, the foods we love are in serious need of an upgrade. Our future-proofed foods are always top 9 allergen-free, vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, affordable and most importantly, utterly delicious.

In 2022, Voyage Foods announced our $36 million Series A to enable the growth of our teams as well as support demand generated from our retail and B2B partnerships. Voyage Foods' Series A was led by UBS O-Connor and Level One Fund with participation from Horizons Ventures, SOSV's Indie Bio, and others. It's a great time to join our team

How we work

We're a rapidly growing team of people who value diversity in all its forms. We love adding new perspectives and appreciate those who ask questions that help us challenge assumptions, explore new directions, and improve what we've already built. We are a group of like-minded difference makers. Curiosity drives our development. We have tenacity and a risk-taking mentality at every level of our organization to keep challenging normalcy. We believe it's our responsibility to create an environment in which every person can bring their full, authentic selves to work. We push each other to be our best and do our products proud. Read more about us by visiting our careers page

Role Introduction

The Vice President of Operations will play a pivotal role in overseeing and managing the current capacity at our existing plant, as well as spearheading the stand-up, establishment and management of our new plant site in the midwest. This individual will be responsible for ensuring steady-state operations while also facilitating rapid growth and change, increasing quality standards, lowering overhead costs, and enhancing overall operational efficiency. The successful candidate will have a strong background in manufacturing, supply chain management, talent management, and leadership. This is an incredible opportunity for a leader looking for a dynamic and collaborative work environment where you'll have the opportunity to make a significant impact on Voyage's growth and success.

This is an exempt, supervisory position based at our Oakland, CA HQ location and will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

What you'll do

• Spearhead and execute the stand-up of our new plant site in the midwest.
• Oversee and manage current capacity at our existing Oakland, California plant.
• Build and lead an effective team of Plant Directors (GMs) to oversee daily operations at both site locations.
• Drive initiatives to achieve and maintain high-quality standards across all manufacturing processes.
• Identify opportunities to lower overhead costs and increase operational efficiency through process improvements and resource optimization.
• Lead and oversee the supply chain and logistics functions, ensuring seamless coordination and integration of all operational activities.
• Implement talent management strategies to attract, develop, and retain top talent within the operations team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement new lines and processes, including the installation of new systems in existing and new plants.
• Manage inventory effectively to minimize waste and optimize resource utilization.
• Ensure compliance with quality assurance standards and regulatory requirements.
• Utilize financial acumen to conduct rigorous P&L analysis and cost-benefit assessments for operational decisions.
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership and navigational abilities to guide the operations team through periods of change and growth.
• Partner with the Capital Projects department on ongoing initiatives and projects.
• Leverage international experience to support global initiatives and expansion efforts.
• Lead and facilitate successful, robust commercialization efforts in partnership with R&D, Sales, Marketing, and all other relevant stakeholders.

What makes a great candidate

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in operations management within the food manufacturing industry, preferably in mid-market companies.
• Extensive experience managing and overseeing multiple production sites across state lines.
• Proven track record of success in manufacturing leadership roles, with experience in building new lines and processes, as well as improving existing infrastructures.
• Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to thrive in environments with limited resources and information
• Strong track record of building and maintaining cross functional partnerships across Operations, R&D, Finance, Marketing, as well as Sales.
• Exceptional financial acumen, including experience with P&L analysis and cost-benefit assessments.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to navigate through complex operational challenges.
• Experience in talent management, supply chain management, and quality assurance.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and able to adapt quickly to changing priorities and business needs.
• Familiarity with international operations (nice to have).

Travel Requirements

• Up to 70% during New Plant Standup
• Up to 30% during Steady State

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Compensation

United States-based roles only: The Annual salary for this role is between $200,000 and $275,000 plus immediate participation in our benefits program (health, dental, 401k and many others), utilization of our generous paid time off and, where applicable, participation in our incentive programs. All employees are owners of Voyage Foods and receive an equity grant as part of their total package. At Voyage Foods, we approach each individual's compensation with a promise of fair market value and internal equity commensurate with experience and specific skill set.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision Plans
• STD/LTD, Life and AD&D policies
• FSA, HRA, and Mental Health Program Benefits
• 401K Program
• 20 Floating Holidays + 9 Company Holidays
• Commuter Benefits
• Paid Family Leave Program
• Ongoing Team Events, including Weekly Friday Lunches

Voyage Foods is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Voyage Foods is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Alex Chancellor, SHRM-SCP at or

Voyage Foods will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background check.