Director of Operations

Our client is a rapidly growing premium protein company that has nearly doubled in size over the past two years. As the business continues to scale, they are seeking a Director of Operations to lead a Minnesota facility and help build the systems, processes, and operational discipline needed for continued growth.

Reporting directly to the CEO, this leader will oversee production, food safety, quality, maintenance, warehousing, and distribution. The facility specializes in meat processing, portioning, packaging, and fulfillment.

• Lead all day-to-day plant operations
• Improve efficiency, yields, labor utilization, and throughput
• Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop KPIs and drive accountability across the operation
• Partner with Quality and Food Safety to maintain regulatory compliance
• Build and develop a high-performing operations team

• Opportunity to make a visible impact in a rapidly growing organization
• Direct access to executive leadership and ownership
• Ability to influence strategy and implement meaningful operational change
• Entrepreneurial environment with minimal bureaucracy
• Mission-driven culture focused on premium animal protein and sustainable practices
• Chance to build the operational foundation for the company's next stage of growth

• 10+ years of leadership experience in meat, poultry, or protein processing
• Proven success improving operational performance and plant metrics
• Strong understanding of USDA, FSIS, HACCP, and food safety requirements
• Experience leading change and implementing continuous improvement initiatives
• Hands‑on leadership style with the ability to balance strategy and execution
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial culture

This opportunity is particularly attractive for an experienced operations leader who wants greater influence, autonomy, and visibility than is often available within large corporate environments.

If you're energized by building teams, improving processes, creating structure, and helping guide a growing organization through its next chapter, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.