R&D Operations Manager

Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in food service, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others.

Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $4billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.

The R&D Operations Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the WHQ and St. Simons Island R&D laboratory and pilot lab facilities. This leader manages a team of technicians, ensuring excellence in associate safety, food safety, ingredient and inventory management, and equipment maintenance. The R&D Operation Manager drives operational standards, fosters a culture of safety and collaboration, and supports research and development activities across both sites.

This role is based at our WHQ in Buffalo, NY.

• Champion and enforce safety protocols, exceeding company and regulatory standards.
• Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and coordinate safety standards with Corporate EH&S Team.
• Lead safety training platform, ensuring all associate training is up to date and documented.
• Mentor and train associates to uphold a safe working environment.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety guidelines across both sites.
• Promotes a culture of safety through ongoing education and visible leadership.

• Oversee implementation of food safety and sanitation protocols in all labs.
• Ensure all R&D activities and facility operations meet or exceed food safety regulations and internal standards.
• Lead internal inspections and support external audits, proactively addressing gaps.
• Maintain documentation for regulatory compliance (FSQA, GMP, SDS, etc.).
• Serve as the primary contact for food safety-related issues and corrective actions.

• Oversee processes for ordering, receipt, and storage of ingredients and supplies, ensuring timely procurement and compliance with allergen control and food safety standards.
• Manage regular clean‑outs, and optimize storage spaces for raw materials, finished goods, and equipment.
• Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing facilities for cross‑site needs.

• Manages day‑to‑day pilot lab operations and sets long‑term operational targets for facilities.
• Oversee facilities technicians to ensure that all equipment is maintained, calibrated, and operating at peak functionality.
• Supervise technicians to ensure that preventive maintenance schedules and complex repairs are done in a timely and quality manner.
• Coordinate with external contractors for specialized repairs and upgrades.
• Support technicians in resolving advanced equipment issues.
• Manage knowledge and records as they relates to lab and pilot plant operations.

• Direct, coach, and develop a team of Facilities Technicians, fostering a collaborative and high‑performance culture.
• Delegate responsibilities, set clear expectations, and conduct regular check‑ins.
• Support professional development and cross‑training opportunities.
• Facilitate communication and alignment between WHQ and St. Simons Island teams.
• Lead by example in problem‑solving, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

• Standardize processes and policies across both labs to ensure consistency and operational excellence.
• Balance local needs with organizational standards and technician responsibilities, adapting as necessary.

• Maintain accurate records of safety, maintenance, inventory, and compliance activities.
• Generate reports and presentations for…