Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer

Location: Based in the Chicago area. Within 1 hr drive to/from Elmhurst.

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Job Type: Full-time

Company Overview: We are a rapidly growing player in the natural private label food industry (40+ team members), dedicated to providing high-quality, organic, and sustainably sourced food products. Our commitment to excellence, innovation, and ethical business practices sets us apart in the industry. Our key ingredient to success is the team itself and as we continue to expand our product portfolio and market presence, we are seeking a strategic and hands-on operations professional to join our dynamic team to drive operational excellence across the organization.

Position Overview

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a critical role in leading and managing some of the company's core functions, including operations, food safety, IT/systems, and in a later phase, finance. The COO will be responsible for ensuring that these departments operate seamlessly and in alignment with the company's strategic goals and mission to deliver exceptional products. This role demands a strategic thinker with strong business acumen, deep experience in the food industry, and a passion for contributing to the overall growth and success of the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Quality & Food Safety:
  • Manage the quality and food safety executives.
  • Ensure the highest standards of food safety across all manufacturing and distribution processes.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor food safety programs to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
  • Lead initiatives to continuously improve food safety protocols and ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality products to consumers.
  • Ensure all operations comply with relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Operational Leadership:
  • Manage the team that oversees the operations in North America
  • Lead and manage all aspects of the company's operations, ensuring efficiency & OTIF.
  • Develop and implement operational strategies that support the company's growth.
  • Oversee supply chain management, production & supply chain processes, and logistics to optimize efficiency and minimize costs.
• IT/Systems Management:
  • Manage IT/Systems executives
  • Oversee the integration and management of IT systems that support the company's operational & financial needs.
  • Ensure the IT infrastructure is robust, secure, and capable of supporting the company's growth.
  • Drive the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and data management.
• Financial Management:
  • Manage the finance executives.
  • Oversee the finance department, ensuring sound financial management, budgeting, forecasting, and optimizing resource allocation and capital expenditures to support the company's objectives.
  • Collaborate with the finance team to develop financial strategies that align with the company's goals for profitability.
  • Monitor financial performance and implement corrective actions to address any deviations from the company's financial plans.
• Leadership and Strategy:
  • Collaborate with the Sourcing & Development team.
  • Provide strong leadership to department heads, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
  • Work closely with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company's strategic plans.
  • Act as a key decision-maker in operational, financial, and strategic matters, ensuring the company's long-term success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Food Science, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in operations and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a leadership position as VP, Director or equivalent.
• Proven experience managing a network of food manufacturing facilities in both the US and emerging markets with responsibilities in Food Safety & Operations.
• Experience dealing with North American retailers is required. In the food private label industry is a strong plus.
• Strong knowledge of IT systems management within a manufacturing environment with proven experience of ERP implementation and use.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency, creating & optimizing processes, and food safety / quality control.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards in the food sector.
• Excellent leadership, communication (Spanish is a plus), and team-building skills.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term objectives with long-term growth goals.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package that includes base salary, bonuses and equity opportunity.
• 100% employer paid premium health insurance including medical, dental and life insurance
• Supplemental coverage for vision, disability insurance, cancer, and hospital stays
• Generous vacation, paid holidays (14), sick/mental health days (6), and you get your birthday off
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Flexible, remote position. Must be based in the Chicago area.

NSI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.