Operations Manager - Real Estate/Facilities/Impact

As the Operations Manager at Guayakí Yerba Mate, you'll oversee all aspects of real estate, facilities, and impact management across our locations. Your role will include working closely with various departments, managing supplier relationships, ensuring operational excellence in our facilities, implementing inventory management processes, and driving safety and impact initiatives. This multifaceted position is essential in ensuring that operations align with our company's mission of creating a net positive impact.

To qualify for the Operations Manager position at Guayakí Yerba Mate, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree or 2 to 5 years of industry-related experience. Previous managerial experience is required, along with strong mathematical and logistical operations skills. Candidates should also have proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and an understanding of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), ensuring they can effectively manage and enhance our logistical operations.

The work environment for an Operations Manager at Guayakí Yerba Mate combines dynamic teamwork and collaboration with a focus on sustainable operations. You’ll be exposed to various warehouse settings, requiring regular physical activity and multitasking across different facilities. As part of a culture prioritizing personal and collective growth, you will engage with diverse teams, pushing for innovative solutions that drive our commitment to impact and regeneration.

The Operations Manager plays a crucial role in leading and implementing impact initiatives at Guayakí Yerba Mate. This includes conducting audits and reporting to meet organizational standards, enhancing partnerships for sustainability, and introducing regenerative measures into our operations. By ensuring compliance across all locations and proactive innovation, you will help foster a commitment to social and ecological regeneration within our mission.

The Operations Manager role at Guayakí Yerba Mate involves some travel, estimated to account for approximately 30% of the work-related activities. This travel will facilitate site assessments, stakeholder meetings, and collaboration with team members at various locations, emphasizing a hands-on approach to operational management across our network.

When discussing strategies to improve operations, focus on process analysis, data monitoring, and employee engagement. Mention your ability to evaluate workflow efficiency, implement lean practices, and solicit feedback from team members. Providing specific examples from previous experience can also reinforce your point.

Addressing conflicts requires proactive communication and collaboration. Share your experience in mediating issues through structured dialogues, ensuring all parties are heard, and focusing on shared goals. Providing an example where you resolved a conflict efficiently can demonstrate your capability.

Discuss your familiarity with various Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and how you've effectively utilized these tools to improve processes. Highlight specific instances where you've implemented system improvements, trained staff, or enhanced data accuracy to optimize inventory management.

Key metrics, such as inventory turnover rates, order accuracy, and shipping times, are crucial for managing warehouse performance. Discuss how tracking these KPIs can inform decision-making and drive improvements, and offer examples from your past experiences to underscore your points.

Emphasizing the importance of a safety-first culture is essential. Discuss your approach to regular safety audits, staff training, and compliance with safety regulations. Providing an example where you successfully implemented safety measures and improved outcomes can illustrate your commitment.

Effective inventory management can be ensured through proactive monitoring, utilizing inventory management systems, and exercising rigorous adherence to FIFO practices. Share examples from your previous experience where you implemented systems or processes that led to improved inventory accuracy and minimized waste.

Assessing team performance can involve regular one-on-one meetings, performance metrics, and team feedback sessions. Discuss how you foster an open culture where team members can express concerns and suggest improvements, along with how you've led skill development programs.

Cost reduction can be effectively approached by analyzing workflow efficiency, identifying bottlenecks, and evaluating supplier costs. Share specific strategies you've employed in your previous roles and the tangible results of those efforts, showcasing your analytical skills.

When referencing a substantial change in operations, describe the context, your role, the strategies you implemented, and the results. This will show that you're not only a change agent but also capable of leading teams through transformative processes successfully.

Effective communication is vital in management, facilitating collaboration and minimizing misunderstandings. Discuss your methods for ensuring clear communication, such as regular team meetings, updates, and establishing open-door policies to promote trust and transparency.