General Manager

This job description is a summary of essential job functions necessary for the satisfactory performance of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable those with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Job functions may vary by location.

General Summary

Implements and oversees comprehensive and operations plans for multiple production facilities within an assigned area, including: agronomy plants, fertilizer plants, CPP and seed handling facilities. Leads initiatives to achieve operational excellence, retain and grow customer base, and maximize sales volume and profitability. Relies on extensive knowledge of plant operations, sales management, agricultural industry best-practices, and leadership skills to accomplish goals. The GM has financial performance responsibility for the CCE of the stores and district.

Essential Job Functions

• Oversee comprehensive operations plans for multiple plants, including: agronomy, fertilizer, CPP and seed handling facilities. Implement, both directly and by leading each facility management team, plans that optimize production, ensure quality control, compliance, and inventory management, and manage budgeting and expenses in-line with division financial goals. Utilize standard operating procedures (SOP) designed to maximize efficiencies while complying with SSC policy and government regulations.

• Maintain highest level of customer service and relationship management. Perform field work and make on-site sales calls in support of the area sales team.

• Develop consistent standards for all facilities in assigned area, managing tracks that include: profitability, volume, margins, expense control, audit compliance, credit compliance, policy compliance, people, performance management, salary programs, environmental compliance, safety compliance, inventory management, events, promotions, housekeeping and image.

• Lead and support the development of a highly effective team. Ensure strong "bench strength" for assigned area by promoting training opportunities and through active use of individual development plans, performance management, and succession planning. Coordinate with senior division leadership to establish staffing plans designed to meet seasonal volume adjustments and budget requirements.

• Foster employee engagement. Establish clear performance objectives, regularly communicate facility results and goals, remove obstacles to efficient performance, and resolve complex customer issues. Interact with employees at all levels to build trust and open communication. Demonstrate the ability to listen to create a comfortable environment for raising concerns and encouraging suggestions. Maintain a work environment where employees are committed to their location and facility goals.

• Develop and maintain open lines of communication with local civic leaders, patrons, Coops Boards. Visit current and prospective customer locations to strengthen business relationships and to present product and service offerings.

• Maintain awareness of area market trends, industry developments, and regulations.

• Utilize a variety of resources to meet own development planning and continuing education requirements, including: professional organizations, seminars (i.e. Crops Certification), conferences, training courses, self-study, and on-line tools.

• Manage programs to maintain equipment and safeguard facility assets. Maximize useful life of all plant equipment, including rolling stock, within expense budget limitations. Maintain an inventory control program to ensure inventory integrity and minimize shrink of merchandise. Monitor facility security to protect inventory, equipment, facility and staff in accordance with SSC policy.

• Direct and prioritize safety initiatives. Ensure area facilities are maintained to meet OSHA and EPA regulations, Southern States Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards, and all applicable policies and work rules. Oversee safety training and initiatives according to SSC guidelines. Perform work safely as to not cause harm to yourself, customers, coworkers, equipment, or inventory. Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required. Maintain current Emergency Response Planning records.

• Perform all other job functions as assigned.