Production Manager

The Production Manager at Schwan’s Company is tasked with supervising production, packaging, and bakery teams to ensure compliance with company and USDA standards. Key responsibilities include training and developing team members, ensuring safety and quality standards are met, monitoring product performance, engaging in food safety initiatives, and preparing operational reports for decision-making.

To qualify for the Production Manager position at Schwan’s Company, candidates should have at least a high school diploma (a bachelor's degree is preferred) and a minimum of four years of relevant work experience in food industry manufacturing, with at least two years in a supervisory role. Knowledge of USDA and FDA regulations, as well as experience with SAP, is beneficial. Advanced knowledge of bakery processes is also a plus.

At Schwan’s Company, ensuring product quality is a key responsibility of the Production Manager. This is accomplished by monitoring product quality metrics, engaging with USDA to meet food safety regulations, and reviewing Quality Assurance and HACCP documentation regularly. The manager will also lead initiatives aiming for continuous improvement in product quality and waste reduction.

The compensation package for the Production Manager at Schwan’s Company includes a competitive base salary range of $58,500 to $97,500, with eligibility for a 10% annual incentive bonus based on organizational performance. In addition to salary, employees benefit from a comprehensive Total Rewards package that emphasizes health benefits, retirement options, and time-off programs, ensuring overall employee well-being.

Schwan’s Company offers various growth opportunities for Production Managers, including leadership development programs, training in advanced manufacturing techniques, and involvement in continuous improvement initiatives. The company fosters a culture of professional development, allowing team members to expand their skills and advance within the organization.

The most effective leadership style for a Production Manager is often a blend of transformational and transactional leadership. This involves inspiring the team with a clear vision while also ensuring day-to-day operations meet established standards and guidelines. Emphasizing safety, communication, and employee development can greatly enhance team productivity.

In case production does not meet quality standards, I would first conduct an immediate analysis to identify the root cause of the problem. Implementing corrective actions, collaborating with quality assurance, and communicating with the team to reinforce quality protocols would be essential steps. It's crucial to ensure that everyone understands their role in upholding quality.

I have extensive experience ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, including familiarity with USDA and FDA standards. My approach includes regular training for team members, conducting audits, and maintaining thorough documentation to ensure that we meet all required safety protocols in our production processes.

Prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced environment is about understanding the urgency and impact of each task. I typically start by assessing production schedules, safety checks, and compliance needs. Using clear communication, I can delegate responsibilities effectively while keeping the team aligned and focused on our collective goals.

I believe in fostering an engaging work culture by recognizing individual contributions and providing constructive feedback. Implementing team-building activities, setting achievable goals, and celebrating accomplishments play a significant role in boosting morale and motivating team members to perform at their best.

I have hands-on experience monitoring KPIs such as production efficiency, waste reduction, and product quality. Analyzing performance metrics helps identify areas for improvement, and I utilize this data to implement actionable strategies that enhance overall operational effectiveness.

Addressing conflicts within a production team involves active listening to understand both sides and facilitating open communication. I believe in mediating discussions that allow all parties to express their thoughts. Encouraging collaboration towards a mutually beneficial resolution fosters a more cohesive working environment.

I am excited about the opportunity to work for Schwan’s Company because of its commitment to quality and community. Being part of a brand that brings families together through food resonates with my values. Additionally, the potential for growth and the inclusive corporate culture attracts me to this position.

The most challenging aspect of being a Production Manager can be balancing the demands of production schedules with ensuring quality and safety standards. However, I find that clear communication, proactive planning, and effective team collaboration can mitigate these challenges successfully.

My approach to continuous improvement involves actively seeking feedback from team members and regularly reviewing operational data. I prioritize making incremental changes that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall product quality. Implementing suggestions from the team fosters a culture of ownership and accountability.