Assistant Director Of Operations - San Fernando, CA

Assistant Director Of Operations

The Assistant Director of Operations supports the Director in leading all aspects of production, safety, quality, and performance at the food manufacturing facility. This role is critical in executing operational strategies, coaching front-line leaders, and ensuring adherence to Lean manufacturing and food safety standards. The position partners cross-functionally to drive measurable improvements in safety, productivity, cost, and delivery while fostering a culture of accountability and leadership development.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Build and lead high-performing teams focused on customer service and operational excellence
• Mentor managers and supervisors to strengthen leadership capabilities and succession planning
• Maintain high visibility on the floor and promote a hands-on, problem-solving approach

Safety & Compliance

• Champion safety awareness and implement innovative safety practices
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards, including SQF, chemical control, and maintenance programs

Operational Excellence

• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing and Toyota Production System (TPS) principles
• Support enterprise-wide lean initiatives and cross-functional collaboration
• Manage material replenishment, quality standards, and performance metrics

Financial & Strategic Impact

• Achieve financial targets through cost-reduction and process improvement projects
• Support product development initiatives to expand market share
• Prepare and present operational reports and performance insights

Qualifications

Required:

• BA/BS in Operations Management, Business, Engineering, or related field
• 5–8 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing or equivalent
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles
• Proven track record of increasing responsibility and operational success

Desirable Characteristics:

• Team-oriented with strong rapport-building skills
• Positive energy and proactive, change-agent mindset
• Comfortable with ambiguity and takes initiative with full accountability

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, and communication. Exposure to cold environments, mechanical equipment, and varying noise levels. Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Willingness to travel to customer and supplier sites as needed.

Associates at Fresh & Ready Foods are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program. Full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry. Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Fresh and Ready Foods maintains a drug-free workplace.